Buying a horse with a history of Sarcoids?

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Telynores

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I've looked at over 25 horses in the past 3 months and finally found one that seems to near fit the bill. Only real issue is that he had a sarcoid when he was a 4 year old. He had it removed almost instantly and it has never returned since. (He's nearing 8 years old). Just wondering if anyone has any experience of horses like this, and whether they would stay well clear from buying or take a gamble.
Thanks.
 
My horse developed a couple as a 7 year old, had removed and touch wood not come back, they were small and no where near the tack. The size/location would affect it for me if still there, but as its not had them in several years I would take a risk. You cous buy something clear of them and them still develop later on
 
I think this one had one near its elbow. When we went to see him, I didn't find a scar anywhere so I cant be too sure. I think we are going to go back for a second look, I'll keep my eye out then. There is also the chance of me buying a perfectly fine horse and them getting them, which is annoying.

Does anyone know much about insuring horses with sarcoids or ones that have had them? If the vet has stated the sarcoid has completely cleared, does the insurance change?
Thanks.
 
Sorry to disagree with everyone, but having seen 2 friends with horses with terrible problems, I wouldn't touch it. When I was horse-hunting last year it was one of my questions, although it does depend if you intend to keep him for ever or you expect to sell in a couple of years. Position and the type of sarcoid are critical too, so you should ask if your vet can talk to their vet. You should go over every inch of him with a fine tooth comb if you go back to see him. Good luck whatever you decide
 
My TB had a sarcoid as an 8 year old, it was sorted after one vet visit and has never returned. He's now 16.

I wouldn't be put of by a horse that had successfully had one removed :)
 
My horse had sarcoids as a youngster, they were very successfully treated. Nothing for 8 or 9 yrs, now something has popped up on his side that my vet is very suspicious is a sarcoid.... He's possibly having surgery next week for something else & as this things tiny they'll whip it off as well at the same time. Personally I would never buy anything that has had sarcoids.
 
Telynores said:
Does anyone know much about insuring horses with sarcoids or ones that have had them? If the vet has stated the sarcoid has completely cleared, does the insurance change?
Thanks.
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that is what I would want to know. If you could get insurance that would not exclude them then yes I would buy. If not then no I wouldn't.
 
If the vet's cert mentions sarcoidosis he will ( I am nearly positive) not be covered for any skin conditions. Sadly sarcoidosis can almost develope over night. I bought a horse in Germany and we think due to the stress of travel within 2weeks he was covered in them. Certainly if you thought you might sell him in the future I would leave him. I am afraid it is one of the first questions I ask about a horse before viewing. That said of course there are many that cause no problems at all. It just depends if you are willing to take the risk. Good luck!
 
I had a horse 2 years ago which had Sarcoids,I had them removed by the vet..18 months later they reappeared..I sold him on..I wouldnt buy another horse with Sarcoids..anyhow best of luck
 
My boy got sarcoids as a 3yo, had them dealt with and have never returned (now 8). I see more and more young horses with sarcoids and it seems as long as they are dealt with straight away they seem to cause no more problems. Insurance wise, if the sarcoids are on the vet record I doubt they'll cover - if you dont have to tell the insurance company dont (not that I advocate lying of course;) ). Personally if youve found the right horse, this wouldnt stop me buying but make sure you get a good price!!!
 
Insurance companies are very wary these days so I would suggest you check. Not sure if I am allowed to post my view on the the two reputable companies who do actually pay out without a debate providing you are entirely honest? And I am pretty sure they won't cover sarcoids.
 
I would if I intended to be the end user ie I was not bringing it on to sell .
I have had several horse that I bought with small sarcoids I paid a price that I had calculated allowed for three goes at treating them I have been lucky and have had a problem with any of them however I do not insure my horses so it not a problem to me that it would be excluded.
 
I bought a horse who was in extremely poor condition and had him vetted, he didn't have sarcoids then but 6 months later he had three small ones. I really believe they were brought on by the state he was in, his system was shutting down. I had them treated with Liverpool Cream and he is clear 18 months later. I think it would depend on the individual horse but it wouldn't necessaily put me off if he was otherwise wonderful! Unfortunately at some point or another, they all have something wrong with them. All the best x
 
Thanks for the feedback guys. The horse is for my 14 year old daughter who will most likely have him for 3 or 4 years and sell on, depending on the circumstances. We aren't looking to make money out of the horse, but likewise, we don't want to throw any down the drain. Though to be honest, if he does the job and will look after her then that's the main thing for me really. We've been looking for so long and had so many lies told to us that I think I'm going to have to make a compromise.

With the money issue on sarcoids, what sort of prices do you pay for your horses?
 
The horse is for my 14 year old daughter who will most likely have him for 3 or 4 years and sell on, depending on the circumstances.
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In this case I would go with your daughters safety. If the horse is right for her - get it.
 
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