Buying our loan pony

[Starburst4]

Hi, I just wondered what people's thoughts were on this.

We have a lovely 25 year old 12hh pony on loan. He's wonderful and to be honest I couldn't imagine him leaving us even when he can't be ridden anymore.

I would love to offer to buy him but wondered if this is a thing? We would give him a home for life.

I have no idea how much they would want. He does have a few health issues that will require ongoing vet visits but I'm very happy to continue with this.

He has just been so fantastic we love him.

 

[millikins]

If I was his owner I'm afraid I wouldn't sell. I have no doubt he has a lovely home with you but the owner of a very elderly pony who clearly cares enough to find him a good loan home will probably want control over him until the end of his life. Can you not just continue the loan?

 

[Winters100]

Talk to the owner - I am sure that they will be delighted to know how much you love him and that you would like to offer him a home for retirement. They may not want to sell, I am guessing that if they have kept him when outgrown their reasons may be that they would like to do right by him when he can no longer be ridden, but they may well agree to let you have him on permanent loan.

 

[Equi]

Don’t rock the boat until you need to. Asking may frighten the owner and make them want him back asap. If things are good for now, let it be. If the convo ever comes up, you can assess at the time.

 

[Barton Bounty]

I wouldn’t come out just ask but … Next time you speak with the owner take the conversation down the avenue of ‘if they were ever selling’ could you please be considered. I very much doubt they will want to put a 25 year old up for sale anyway. The owner probably regards your family as a home for life now anyway. ?