British Horse Society advises never loan a horse without
an agreement
The British Horse Society (BHS) strongly advises horse owners,
and those contemplating having a horse on loan or by lease,
never to do so without a written agreement. Loaning or leasing
a horse often appears to be an attractive solution, both for
the owner who may not have enough time to look after the horse
but does not want to sell it, and for those looking for a
horse without the capital required for initial purchase.
However, such arrangements can be rife with potential problems.
Frequently the arrangement is by word of mouth only, and when
something goes wrong it can be the animal that ultimately
suffers. The BHS advocates that in all cases there should
be a written agreement signed by both parties. Although not
essential it is advisable to have the agreement written by
a solicitor, or at the least viewed by one, with the responsibilities
of both parties clearly defined, and be fair and reasonable
Under no circumstances should a horse be put on loan or out
to lease if it is suffering any kind of illness or lameness.
As with selling a horse it should be sound and fit for the
purpose for which it is being loaned or leased. Horse owners
considering loaning or leasing their horse need to think through
carefully their reasons for doing so and make the decision
based on what is best for the horse. It may be that the animal
is incurably unsound or elderly and the owner can no longer
afford to keep it in which case it may be advisable to discuss
with the vet whether humane destruction would be the best
option.
The BHS has a series of 'Guide to' welfare leaflets offering
advice and guidance on a range of issues involving looking
after horses including 'Loaning or Leasing' and is currently
re-writing 'Humane Destruction'. For a free copy please send
a stamped addressed envelope to: The British Horse Society,
Welfare Department, Stoneleigh Deer Park, Kenilworth, Warwickshire
CV8 2XZ quoting the leaflet required.
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