ex-race horse

[Caryfakes]

I'm looking for a sounding board or a good talking to I suppose, so please bear with me. A young ex-race horse (he's been privately owned for a year) that is stabled at the yard where we loan a horse is going to the sales tomorrow and will probably go for meat. He's such a sweet boy and only 5. His owner only acquired him as she outbid the meat man but her circumstances have since changed. I know this happens every day all over the country but this is so close to home that I feel unable to just sit back and let it happen. Bu I realistically don't have the time, money or experience to take him on although I'd love to and I'm tempted to go to the sales 'just to see'. Please talk sense to me.

[Butkin]

The first rule of buying horses/ponies is that it is not the purchase price that will ruin you! Always buy the best you can afford and the one that suits your ability and requirements because it is keeping that costs the real money.

I understand this may be traumatic but you may be better spending your money on a horse - also deserving of your love and care - that will be a better fit for your circumstances. I always think if you're buy a horse/pony you should look at loads with a definite aim in mind. Never buy the one just because it's on your doorstep.

[Booboostoo]

Walk away. Going for meat is not the worst thing that can happen to a horse, assuming he is euthanised calmly and competently. To be honest the current owner should man up and have the horse PTS rather than dragging it around the sales and an uncertain future.

If you don't have the time, money or experience for this horse don't make the stupid mistake she made a year ago, it only prolongs the inevitable.

[Caryfakes]

Thank you. Wise words indeed and now I've slept on it buying him on impulse to save his fate is a very bad idea.