Buying a horse can be a dream come true for many people, but it can also be a nightmare if you end up with a bad horse or a bad deal. There are many things to consider when looking for your ideal equine partner, and some of them are not so obvious or easy to spot.
That’s why I decided to talk to an expert of horse riding who has bought a lot of horses and knows what to look out for. He shared with me some of the common red flags that he has encountered when horse shopping, and I wrote this article to share them with you. These red flags may indicate that the horse or the seller is not trustworthy, and that you should be careful or walk away from the deal. Here are 13 red flags that you should beware of when horse shopping.
1 – Saddled Horse : A Possible Cover-Up
This may mean that the seller is trying to hide something, such as a sore back, a bad conformation, or a behavioral issue. If the horse is already saddled, ask the seller to unsaddle the horse and let you see it in its natural state. You should also check the saddle fit and the condition of the tack.
2 – Sweaty Horse: A Sign of Overwork or Illness
This may mean that the seller has worked the horse hard before you arrived, to make it appear more calm and obedient than it really is. A sweaty horse may also indicate that the horse is unfit, unhealthy, or in pain. If the horse is sweaty, ask the seller how long and how hard they have ridden the horse before you came. You should also check the horse’s vital signs, such as pulse, respiration, and temperature.
3 – Sluggish or Calm Horse: A Red Flag for Drugs
This may mean that the seller has given the horse some sedatives or tranquilizers to mask its true personality or energy level. A drugged horse may also have droopy eyes, slow reactions, or poor coordination. If you suspect that the horse is drugged, ask the seller if they have given the horse any medication or supplements. You should also request a blood test as part of the pre-purchase exam (PPE).
4 – Owner’s Refusal to Ride: A Hint of Fear or Danger
This may mean that the seller is afraid of the horse or knows that the horse has some dangerous habits, such as bucking, rearing, bolting, or spooking. If the owner doesn’t ride first, ask them why and if they have any videos of them riding the horse. You should also ask for a professional trainer or rider to ride the horse before you do.
5 – Owner’s Objection to Your Ride: A Way to Hide Problems
This may mean that the seller is trying to prevent you from discovering any problems with the horse, such as lameness, stiffness, or lack of training. If the owner doesn’t want you to ride the horse, ask them what their reason is and if they have any references from previous buyers or riders. You should also insist on riding the horse in different settings and situations, such as in an arena, on a trail, or with other horses.
6 – Owner’s False Claims of Show Experience: A Lie to Boost Value
This may mean that the seller is lying about the horse’s experience or achievements, or that the horse has performed poorly or inconsistently at shows. If the owner claims that the horse has been to shows, ask them for proof of registration, results, or awards. You should also check online databases or websites for show records and ratings.
7 – Colorful Horse: A Distraction from Other Issues
This may mean that the seller is trying to distract you from other aspects of the horse, such as its conformation, health, or temperament. Color is not a reliable indicator of quality or suitability for a certain discipline or rider level. If a horse is being sold for color, ask the seller about its pedigree, performance history, and potential. You should also evaluate the horse based on its overall appearance and ability.
8 – Owner’s Resistance to PPE: A Risk of Health or Soundness Issues
This may mean that the seller is hiding something about the horse’s health or soundness, or that they are trying to influence the outcome of the PPE. A PPE is an essential part of buying a horse, as it can reveal any existing or potential issues that may affect the horse’s performance or well-being. If the owner doesn’t want you to do a PPE, walk away from the deal. If they say they already did one or tell you to use their vet, ask for a copy of the report and contact details of the vet who did it. You should also use your own vet or an independent vet for a second opinion.
9 – Polos on Horse: A Trick to Conceal Injuries or Swelling
This may mean that the seller is trying to cover up any injuries or swelling on the horse’s legs, such as splints, windpuffs, or tendonitis. Polos are bandages that are wrapped around the horse’s lower legs for protection or support, but they can also hide any signs of lameness or pain. If the horse is wearing polos, ask the seller to take them off and let you see the horse’s legs. You should also palpate the legs for any heat, bumps, or sensitivity.
10 – Multiple Buyers: A Pressure Tactic or a Scam
This may mean that the seller is trying to create a sense of urgency or competition among the buyers, to pressure them into making a quick or impulsive decision. This can also lead to bidding wars or inflated prices. If there are multiple buyers at once, ask the seller how they are handling the offers and if they have a waiting list or a deposit policy. You should also take your time and do your research before making an offer or signing a contract.
11 – Inconsistent Answers: A Sign of Lying or Hiding Something
This may mean that the seller is lying or hiding something about the horse, such as its age, history, or behavior. If the owner gives you inconsistent answers, ask them to clarify and provide evidence or documentation. You should also compare their answers with other sources of information, such as the horse’s papers, vet records, or previous owners.
12 – Too Good to Be True: A Warning of Exaggeration or Fabrication
This may mean that the seller is exaggerating or fabricating the horse’s qualities or abilities, to make it seem more appealing or valuable than it really is. If the horse seems too good to be true, ask the seller for proof or demonstration of their claims. You should also be realistic and skeptical about what you are looking for and what you can afford.
13 – Seller’s Lack of Interest in Horse’s Future: A Sign of Neglect or Abuse
This may mean that the seller doesn’t care about the horse’s welfare or future, or that they are trying to get rid of the horse as soon as possible. If the seller doesn’t seem interested in where their horse will end up, ask them why they are selling the horse and what kind of home they are looking for. You should also look for signs of neglect or abuse on the horse, such as poor body condition, scars, or injuries
These are some of the common red flags that you should beware of when horse shopping. However, they are not definitive or conclusive, and they may not apply to every situation or every horse. The best way to avoid buying a bad horse is to do your homework, ask questions, get professional advice, and trust your instincts. Remember that buying a horse is a big commitment and investment, so you should make sure that you are getting a horse that suits your needs and expectations.
Happy horse shopping & see you next time !