what should be in a contract for having a horse on trial?

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tangosmum

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I have found (I think) a horse that I would like to have on trial. The owners keep the horse at home, (one of only 2), no menage and very limited facitilies. I will keep horse on a large livery yard, with 40 horses, 60 acres and two menages etc etc.

Because the change in environment is going to be huge, owner is happy for horse to go on trial for 4 weeks.

I have agreed to insure horse, and pay a deposit of £500, if the horse is unsuitable I will return it and get my deposit back. If horse if fine, I will pay the balance and receive a receipt and passport.

Has anyone had a horse on trial. Is there anything else which is the done thing? Or important to do/clarify/agree? Should a formal contract be drawn up?
 
Make up a contract between owner and loaner ( you), as it will keep both parties right, owner might have one for you to sign.
Contract should state details of horse and in what condition horse is in, how long loan period is for, your responsibility to horse whilst in your care i.e transport, livery, farrier, vet,insurance,replacement of damaged tack or rugs, feed costs, type of feed to give horse, any quirks horse might have for you to be aware of, what you can use horse for ( hacking, shows,) who can ride horse.
Hope it works out for you.
 
The responses above are quite comprehensive. I'd also want to discuss and record what would happen if the horse was injured or became ill whilst in your care - e.g., a kick in the field that would have long term consequences. Would it bring the trial to an end? Would your insurance be required to continue for the duration of the treatment?

Itemise the tack and equipment and its condition so there are no disagreements later. OH generally photographs and weighs new horses to the yard when they arrive so that he has a record of the state of arrival.

If the horse turns out to be wholly unsuitable to life on a large yard, can you take it back early? Who transports it? Who pays transport costs?

You may think the answers to some of the questions obvious, but the owners may have a different and, to them, equally obvious view.

I hope it turns out to be the right horse for you!
 
Thanks all. I went and tried the horse for a second time and got bucked off! Hence not going to do a trial now!

But great advice and will bare it in mind if any future trials are possible.
 
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