Free to a good home - does this sound dodgy?

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charlie26

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I have just seen an advert for a 14.2hh Welsh Section D mare, 25 years old who is free to a good home. I called the owner and apparently they have only had her for ten months and in that time it was their 11 year old daughter who rode her. They said they no longer have the time or money to look after her, hence giving her away.

I am going to have a look at her at the weekend but it does strike me that she is free. Or does this make sense given her age?

Has anyone else acquired a horse that was free to a good home? I would be interested to hear other people's experiences.

Thanks.
 
I have two in my field. They weren't veterans when I got them, so with an oldie I'd be a bit careful about medical issues. I was given one 4 year old because she'd been rescued and the people who had her didn't really have a use for her. She's turned out to be a great little riding pony. The other was free because he came to me with severe behaviour issues, initially on a sort of rehabbing loan. He just stayed.
 
I would be tempted to try and get details of the previous owner to see what they have to say about the pony. I do have a freebie but I have spent a fair few pounds on vets to get her rideable. I did know what I was taking on though having known the pony for years,
 
with any oldie you will end up with some health issues at some point in time. Dont let that put you off!
They could be genuine - did they ask much about you - where she would be kept, your experience etc? xx
 
Thanks for the replies, really helpful :-)

Dancing Queen - they did ask me quite a few questions and stressed they were looking for a forever home which I can offer.

Maree t - that is really good advice, I want to try to find out about her past as the current owners said they think she was used as a broodmare at some point.

Thanks everyone x
 
charlie26 said:
Thanks for the replies, really helpful :-)

Dancing Queen - they did ask me quite a few questions and stressed they were looking for a forever home which I can offer.

Maree t - that is really good advice, I want to try to find out about her past as the current owners said they think she was used as a broodmare at some point.

Thanks everyone x
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I would think that they are genuine then. xx
 
POLLDARK said:
Sounds ok but make sure that you pay at least a £1 & get a receipt/bill of sale as proof .
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^^^^ This!

I was given a horse which was unsaleable at the time, the owner said she just wanted it to go to a good home. After months of rehab, the horse was coming right and the original owner, who had not visited the horse, started saying that I had the horse on loan. I had nothing in writing, so I either had to return the horse or buy it. I chose to buy, but for a lot more than £1.
 
You will find out how genuine they are and concerned about the future of the pony if they ask to inspect the new home!

Definately pay them for the horse - even if it is £1.00 and get a written receipt.

Ensure you have deep pockets (financial reserves) as an elderly pony can not be insured and therefore you potentially could end up with large vet bills.
 
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