by Paige Cerulli

Created on: December 29, 2008   Last Updated: June 25, 2009

The phrase, "Don't look a gift horse in the mouth," is all too well-known. After all, haven't we all been taught that nothing in life is free? When presented with a "free" horse, some people jump at the chance to take it on, while others insist you should run in the other direction.

My question is, where would we be without the dedicated equestrians who agree to take in these "free" horses? Overpopulation is a huge problem facing the equine world, and it has only been made worse by the declining state of the United States economy. Online equine forums are currently filled with ads from owners hoping to give away the horses that they now find themselves incapable of affording. Some of these horses are old, some are injured, and some simply have owners who have the unfortunate luck of being forced to part with their horses or watch them go without proper care.

Horse racing is also constantly producing an excess of horses that are in need of homes. The horses that are too slow or old for the sport are often given away. Some are rehomed through rescues such as Canter and ReRun. These horses are essentially free and are put up for adoption with a small fee to cover their care during the time that they have spent at the rescues.

It is most important for a "buyer" to understand that a "free" horse will not remain free for long. Though there may be no fee to them for the horse's purchase itself, the financial costs of a horse do not end with its initial purchase. Well-informed riders will know that the bills add up quickly when you account for board bills, vet bills, farrier bills, trailering/transportation, and the huge assortment of equipment that even a companion horse will require.

Whether accepting a "free" horse is worth it for a rider depends entirely on matching the correct horse with the rider's purpose and intentions. Older horses that are unsound would obviously be a poor match for a rider looking for a horse to ride on trails, in lessons, and especially to compete with. However, for a person looking for a companion horse that would not need to be ridden, such a horse would be very valuable. Talk to a number of horse owners and you are guaranteed to find numerous stories of owners finding their dream horses in rescues and kill pens. Clearly, taking on a horse for free can work.

When accepting a "free" horse, one should absolutely have the horse vetted out to make sure that they are aware of any physical problems that could inhibit a horse's use. Some owners are very honest and inform potential owners of a horse's chronic problems that will require medical care. Unfortunately, some owners are not so honest, and this is where the gift horse gets a bad name. Do your research, and ask around. If possible, talk with other riders and owners at the barn who are familiar with the horse. Have a vet you trust examine the horse.

Sometimes horses are given away because of behavioral issues. Make sure that the horse is a good match for a rider's capabilities if you are taking it on as anything other than a companion horse. Ask for a test ride - any reasonable owner should completely understand and agree to a test ride; after all, making sure the horse and rider are a good match is in their best interest.

In summary, taking on a free horse is very much the same as buying a horse. It requires lots of research on the part of the "buyer," and it will only be a successful and rewarding experience if horse and rider are suited for each other. Use caution and don't take on a horse simply because it is "free" - there are many, many horses being offered for "free" or very low costs currently. Make sure to find the one that is right for you.

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