Missold horse

[CJess]

Hey everyone, please no judgement! I bought my first horse a week ago all was going well I've not ridden yet due to needing a new saddle. The vet came to do vaccinations and told me he has a sore back which will need physio and can develop into something more which wouldnt be covered by insurance. They basically advised me that hes not suitable as a first horse. I paid £2600 and obviously the previous owner hasn't answered. I've not had to put him up for sale with an honest advert, is there anything else I can do as I cant be paying for him for months realistically? I'm heartbroken but it would be selfish to keep him.
Thank you in advance.

 

[ester]

Was the horse vetted
Did the horse come from a dealer or private seller

your 'I've not had to put him up for sale' is that meant to say you have put him up for sale?

Has something happened in the last week that meant that you could pay for him for months when you bought him but you can't now? Why is it selfish to keep him?

 

[OrangeAndLemon]

I'm assuming you didn't have him vetted before purchase?

Did you buy privately or from a dealer?

Do you still have proof he was sold as suitable for a beginner? (The original advert or any correspondence between you and the seller)

 

[Red-1]

I too am a bit bemused.

How did the vet diagnose a back problem from a vaccination visit? Was the horse X rayed? Is it a skin condition?

Was the horse fine to ride when you tried him/her? What did the vet say?

I also don't understand how it is selfish to keep it?

 

[ihatework]

This is a tricky one because having read your other posts it is blindingly clear what is going on and unfortunately you are way out of your depth. This is likely to be very expensive for you or a potentially bad ending for the horse.

Where abouts are you? Maybe someone experienced who is local can give you a hand?

 

[SaddlePsych'D]

I know very little about these things but a 'sore back' doesn't sound like a proper diagnosis to me. I feel for you OP - I think you mentioned the turnout problem at your yard which sounds like a nightmare, then to be told this as a first time owner I can imagine all together it could be quite overwhelming (especially with what sounded like a not very good YO). That said, it seems potentially unfair to sell the horse on with unknown/unquantified issues. I'm sure if you've got more info there will be others on here with much more experience that can help you think through what to do.

 

[paddi22]

You need to get more info about what the vet thinks the sore back is. Plenty of horses get sore backs that are easily fixed with physio and correct tack and work. There is no way for the vet to diagnose an issue without proper examination and X-rays.

who advised you that it wasn't suitable as a first horse? and did they explain why?

 

[CJess]

Was the horse vetted
Did the horse come from a dealer or private seller

your 'I've not had to put him up for sale' is that meant to say you have put him up for sale?

Has something happened in the last week that meant that you could pay for him for months when you bought him but you can't now? Why is it selfish to keep him?

Was the horse vetted
Did the horse come from a dealer or private seller

your 'I've not had to put him up for sale' is that meant to say you have put him up for sale?

Has something happened in the last week that meant that you could pay for him for months when you bought him but you can't now? Why is it selfish to keep him?

He needs a lot of work with x Ray's and physio aswell as a specially fitted saddle which I just cant afford. My home circumstances have changed which means that finances are a bit tight

 

[CJess]

I know very little about these things but a 'sore back' doesn't sound like a proper diagnosis to me. I feel for you OP - I think you mentioned the turnout problem at your yard which sounds like a nightmare, then to be told this as a first time owner I can imagine all together it could be quite overwhelming (especially with what sounded like a not very good YO). That said, it seems potentially unfair to sell the horse on with unknown/unquantified issues. I'm sure if you've got more info there will be others on here with much more experience that can help you think through what to do.

Yeah it's all been an absolute nightmare really, I just dont think I'm experienced enough for him and cant give him what he needs. I've been completely honest on the advert aswell but the vet said he has got a side to him that's sharp so if I'm on his back and its sore I can potentially get thrown off. I'm nervous as it is riding so dont think it would be suitable x

 

[CJess]

This is a tricky one because having read your other posts it is blindingly clear what is going on and unfortunately you are way out of your depth. This is likely to be very expensive for you or a potentially bad ending for the horse.

Where abouts are you? Maybe someone experienced who is local can give you a hand?

I am way out of my depth, I'm confident in owning a horse but everything with him is going wrong. I could handle everything else however, I wouldnt have the sufficient funds or even experience he requires.he deserves much better as he is lovely he just needs quite a bit of work

 

[CJess]

I too am a bit bemused.

How did the vet diagnose a back problem from a vaccination visit? Was the horse X rayed? Is it a skin condition?

Was the horse fine to ride when you tried him/her? What did the vet say?

I also don't understand how it is selfish to keep it?

I asked for her to look over him whilst she was there as he has a cut on his back leg too. She said he is sharp as he was locking a lot. She pressed on his back and shown it was very sore. Its selfish to keep him as he requires a lot of time and care that I couldnt give, i cant afford x Ray's and physio etc.

 

[ihatework]

I am way out of my depth, I'm confident in owning a horse but everything with him is going wrong. I could handle everything else however, I wouldnt have the sufficient funds or even experience he requires.he deserves much better as he is lovely he just needs quite a bit of work

I think you need to reevaluate horse ownership after this one.

Being able to pay for an X-ray, some physio and training is fundamental, irrespective of the horse.

Good luck, I hope he lands on his feet somewhere who will give him a chance and not just flog him onto the next unsuspecting novice

 

[CJess]

I'm assuming you didn't have him vetted before purchase?

Did you buy privately or from a dealer?

Do you still have proof he was sold as suitable for a beginner? (The original advert or any correspondence between you and the seller)

I didn't no, as tbh I trusted them as they do it for a living which is stupid I know! It's from a dealer, I have proof that I asked if it was suitable for a novice and she said she would say so. I have the conversation all there.

 

[CJess]

I think you need to reevaluate horse ownership after this one.

Being able to pay for an X-ray, some physio and training is fundamental, irrespective of the horse.

Good luck, I hope he lands on his feet somewhere who will give him a chance and not just flog him onto the next unsuspecting
I've had him a week and hes had everything he could so far, the vet aswell as other owners said it's too much for a first time owner. Thanks for the judgement

 

[Tiddlypom]

Oh dear.

I hope that this is a wind up.

 

[Red-1]

I didn't no, as tbh I trusted them as they do it for a living which is stupid I know! It's from a dealer, I have proof that I asked if it was suitable for a novice and she said she would say so. I have the conversation all there.

If the horse was from a dealer, then it has to be suitable so there is a chance that you could get your money back. However, this is often easier said than done. Also, if the horse has such a terrible back, yet they were riding, then the horse won't be looked after properly there.

I am sorry to say that the vet can't really say that a horse is sharp just because they don't want you to look at an injured leg. Many calm and safe to ride cobs can be defensive over their legs, as they have skin conditions under the feathers.

I agree with IHW, with your new, changed circumstances, it doesn't sound like you should have a replacement horse right now; I agree that everyone with a horse should be able to pay for basic investigations, an X ray and some physio. I can understand not being able to find money for a major disaster, such as colic surgery, but this sounds a lot more routine. So, it sounds like selling is the best idea, and not replacing.

I would probably offer him back to the dealer at a much reduced price. It may well not be the best outcome for him, but it would be for you as the problem would be gone. Hopefully he will find a more suitable home.

 

[nikicb]

I didn't no, as tbh I trusted them as they do it for a living which is stupid I know! It's from a dealer, I have proof that I asked if it was suitable for a novice and she said she would say so. I have the conversation all there.

I am sorry you find yourself in this situation. However, as you bought through a dealer you do have legal routes open to you. There is a useful summary on this link: https://www.leathesprior.co.uk/news/buying-a-horse-the-legal-aspects

And there are lots of helpful people on this forum that will know far more than me about how to proceed.

Good luck.

Edited to add, I have no relationship with the company linked above, I just found it using google and thought it was a useful summary.

 

[SaddlePsych'D]

Yeah it's all been an absolute nightmare really, I just dont think I'm experienced enough for him and cant give him what he needs. I've been completely honest on the advert aswell but the vet said he has got a side to him that's sharp so if I'm on his back and its sore I can potentially get thrown off. I'm nervous as it is riding so dont think it would be suitable x

Very tricky indeed, but like I say there's a lot of experience on this forum so hopefully it can be a source of support. I've not taken the plunge yet in buying my own but sharing has shown me how important it is to have a network of knowledge and support around. From your other post it didn't seem like your YO/other liveries were particularly supportive (using your inexperience to try to excuse what sounds like a very unsafe setup for any owner not just new ones). I'm not sure what the answer is here, you may have some comeback with the dealer but others will know far more on this than me. It's probably not ideal to pass him on but obviously I don't know your financial circumstances/limitations in relation to having further investigations.

 

[CJess]

Than

If the horse was from a dealer, then it has to be suitable so there is a chance that you could get your money back. However, this is often easier said than done. Also, if the horse has such a terrible back, yet they were riding, then the horse won't be looked after properly there.

I am sorry to say that the vet can't really say that a horse is sharp just because they don't want you to look at an injured leg. Many calm and safe to ride cobs can be defensive over their legs, as they have skin conditions under the feathers.

I agree with IHW, with your new, changed circumstances, it doesn't sound like you should have a replacement horse right now; I agree that everyone with a horse should be able to pay for basic investigations, an X ray and some physio. I can understand not being able to find money for a major disaster, such as colic surgery, but this sounds a lot more routine. So, it sounds like selling is the best idea, and not replacing.

I would probably offer him back to the dealer at a much reduced price. It may well not be the best outcome for him, but it would be for you as the problem would be gone. Hopefully he will find a more suitable home.

Thank you, I've tried calling but obviously they wont answer. I've put an ad up to see as at least I can check the home aswell then.

 

[ester]

So did you view? if you didn't view distance selling regulations apply with regards to returning within a certain time frame (I think 30 days). If you did view from a dealer (not private sale) the horse has to be 'fit for purpose' but I don't think your current brief look over by the vet will be sufficient for that at this point.

If you did view was he actually sharp?

 

[AmyMay]

Than
Thank you, I've tried calling but obviously they wont answer. I've put an ad up to see as at least I can check the home aswell then.

Return it to the dealer. Call from a different phone if needs be, or call around in person. But this horse must go back to them with a full refund given to you. This is all within your rights.

 

[Starzaan]

I’m afraid I agree with those saying that you should seriously rethink horse ownership moving forwards.
Physio, ‘specially fitted saddles’ and vets are all imperative for ALL horses, not just those with sore backs.

I will never understand why inexperienced first time owners don’t get horses vetted. Forgive me if he was vetted OP, but if not, why not? Also, I would strongly advise against you selling him on - return him to the dealer abs get your money back. If you sell him now you are simply passing on known problems and he won’t end up in the right hands. This is unfair on the horse and also on whoever ends up purchasing him.

 

[Pearlsacarolsinger]

I’m afraid I agree with those saying that you should seriously rethink horse ownership moving forwards.
Physio, ‘specially fitted saddles’ and vets are all imperative for ALL horses, not just those with sore backs.

I will never understand why inexperienced first time owners don’t get horses vetted. Forgive me if he was vetted OP, but if not, why not? Also, I would strongly advise against you selling him on - return him to the dealer abs get your money back. If you sell him now you are simply passing on known problems and he won’t end up in the right hands. This is unfair on the horse and also on whoever ends up purchasing him.

Absolutely. Contact the dealer send the horse back, get your money, or most of it, back. Resolve to learn *a lot* more about horses before buying another one, hopefully several years down the line.
TBH, this horse sounds to have been mis-bought, as much as mis-sold but you are legally entitled to your money back, as you bought from a dealer, so for the horse's sake go down that route.

 

[PurBee]

Sorry youre struggling in this way with horses, aswell as your yard - youre not having much luck.
Sounds like your novice status has allowed many more experienced folk: the dealer and your yard, to take the pee out of you.
Return the horse to the dealer, even if you lose out on a full refund, and get partial - the potential hassles of selling onto an unsuitable new home is likely and this will never end well.
If youre wanting to continue with horses, perhaps look into sharing. be honest about your abilities and wants. You will gain valuable experience that will set you up in the future for eventual full horse ownership.

The dealer not answering your calls is ominous. Get a friend to call from a new number, posing as a prospective buyer, theyll ring back then! Or simply visit dealer yard with experienced horseperson who’s got experience with dealers...and the law binding them!

 

[honetpot]

I am to hear of your troubles. You have the wrong horse ,on the wrong yard.
I know money is tight but I would ring round and find somewhere where they will take an interest in your and your horses welfare, even if it's just individual turnout or you pay them to bring him in. At the same time, tell the seller that he is unfit for your purpose and sold as not as described, by letter, email, and tell them if they do not refund your money you will take them to the small claims court. You will need to gather all the information for small claims. I wouldn't buy any equipment, or vets investigations unless its for his welfare.

I think the main priority is finding somewhere where you are both safe, and it will get harder as it gets to Christmas. The dealer taking it back unless you are really lucky is not going to happen quickly, and they will want to keep the money.
Nearly all horses have a difficult few weeks when they change owners and yards, its like a new school with no friends, and your horse may not have been at the dealers' yard long. Perhaps when he gets settled and you get more confident things will get better. If you really can not cope ring another dealer in your area, and get them to take it away. You will be lucky if you get £500, but it may be for the best.
Before anyone comments that this is not fair on the horse, someone is going to get hurt, and I have seen enough people flat on their back with a tube out of their mouth because a horse has kicked them, they were experienced horse people, and they often do not recover.
Everyone who has bought enough horses has made mistakes, mine was a very pretty, but turned very sharp pony I bought to do LR, and it was an absolute nutter. What can go wrong, I bought unspoilt three year old from the breeder? You have realised the purchase was a mistake you just have to see clearly what is the best way forward.

 

[brighteyes]

Was the horse vetted
Did the horse come from a dealer or private seller

your 'I've not now had to put him up for sale' is that meant to say you have put him up for sale?

Has something happened in the last week that meant that you could pay for him for months when you bought him but you can't now? Why is it selfish to keep him?

Out of their depth, I'd say. At £2600, and bearing in mind the crazy prices about, I'm wondering if that was a problem animal.

I wonder did the OP try it and have they given the horse the required amount of time to settle in? IME 12 months is a fair shot at allowing for the 'newness' wearing off.

 

[Goldenstar]

If it was private sale it is unlikely you can return the horse .
You can’t sell it on .
Yo need to get good advice from the vet and the cheapest way out may well be to euthanise the horse .
Ring and book a call with vet and discuss your options you need to very honest with the vet about your position financially.

 

[ester]

OP has clarified it was a dealer
but not whether she viewed or not, which legally matters.

 

[Goldenstar]

I missed the dealer part sorry .
OP seek to return the ASAP .
Please tell us you viewed it even if you missed all these issues .

 

[Winters100]

Sorry that you are having these problems. In my opinion if you can return him this is clearly the best option for you, but you need to do something immediately.

You didn't say if the horse was vetted at purchase?

Also I would not take any notice of a throwaway comment from the vet that he was being sharp. One of mine is an absolute gentleman ridden and not afraid of anything, but with the vet he behaves completely differently, flinches and snorts when the vet even touches him and I have do do most injections myself to avoid hysterics.

Do try to learn from this. This is a living animal, so really it deserves that people think carefully before taking on the responsibility of ownership and needing a few xrays, some physio and a properly fitted saddle is not really a big thing when you own horses.

Good luck and let us know how you get on with the seller.