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Scams
When making a horse available for sale
It has been reported that increasing numbers of advertisers have been approached by individuals involved in attempted internet-based scams.
Some horse owners who have advertised their animals online have received dubious offers from "buyers". The buyers (almost always based overseas) promises to send a cheque that more than covers the cost of the horse and shipping, before asking the vendor to wire the excess amount back to their "agent". The cheques, if they arrive, bounce.
When buying a horse
Caveat emptor, let the buyer beware, is more appropriate for buying horses than almost any other purchase. As well as the difficulty of assessing whether the horse suits you and your purpose, a small proportion of unscrupulous vendors use "scams" to bump up prices and pass on unsuitable or downright dangerous animals.
Examples of common scams include:
"Owners" selling horses that are not theirs to "sell"
A long journey to see a horse that has already been sold
The seller taking a "finder's fee"
The horse not being as advertised
Horses being doped
The seller offering false references
How to avoid this
Make sure that you check and verify the facts don't just take people at their word.
With a registered horse, you can check with the appropriate sporting or breed organisation that the vendor is its current owner, this will be easier if it is currently competing.
If the horse has a passport or vaccination certificate, this should also give the owner's name.
Useful contacts:
BSJA: Tel: 02476 698800
British Dressage Tel: 02476 698839
British Eventing Tel: 02476 698856
When making a horse available for loan.
Advertise widely and word your advert carefully. Be discerning - don't just accept the first applicant that comes along, try and see at least prospective loanees
Let prospective loanees spend some time with your horse and watch how they handle him.
Carefully vet the person you are loaning your horse or pony to. Ask to see proof of identity with an address, and references. Wherever possible visit the premises at which your horse will be kept and check them out with local suppliers such as tack shops and feed merchants.
Make sure your horse is freezemarked and/or microchipped and retain the documents.
Ensure the loanee will be able to provide for your animal's welfare adequately. If your horse has specialist needs check what arrangements will be in place for its care.
Get a solicitor to draw up a fair and reasonable contract for both parties to sign. Review the contract on a regular basis. Take nothing for granted, even with friends. Circumstances do change, so be businesslike.
Unless it has formed part of the original agreement, do not expect to be able to visit your horse whenever you please.
If you have cause for concern, such as a breach of contract, try and resolve the matter by discussin it with the loanee if possible. If this doesn't resolve the matter then you may wish to contact a solicitor for advice on the best course of action.
When making a horse available for sale
It has been reported that increasing numbers of advertisers have been approached by individuals involved in attempted internet-based scams.
Some horse owners who have advertised their animals online have received dubious offers from "buyers". The buyers (almost always based overseas) promises to send a cheque that more than covers the cost of the horse and shipping, before asking the vendor to wire the excess amount back to their "agent". The cheques, if they arrive, bounce.