selling a horse
Just because children and beginners have ridden your horse safely doesn’t mean every child or beginning rider could do so. So, in advertisements, describe the types of riders who have ridden your horse, and in what circumstances. | Photo: iStock
Selling a horse is serious business when it comes to how you represent him in advertisements and to potential buyers. What you say could inadvertently create liability for you, so choose your words carefully. Here are three things not to say when selling a horse.

1. “100% Sound” or “Sells Sound”

Why Not?

As most equine veterinarians will tell you, hardly any horse is truly “100% sound.” And even if he is sound today, he might not be sound tomorrow. So if you tell potential buyers your horse as “100% sound” or “sells sound,” and the horse turns up lame after purchase due to a pre-existing condition, you have potential liability.

What to Say Instead:

“Vet checks welcome.” This is appealing to potential buyers because it suggests you think your horse is sound and healthy without making any representations about his physical condition. It also encourages potential buyers to think about getting a veterinary prepurchase examination, which will provide them with information they need to make a wise purchasing decision. At the same time, it protects you from potential liability.

2. “Bombproof”

Why Not?

Horses are flight animals and even the most trustworthy horse can and will react to stimuli.  So if you advertise your horse as “bombproof,” and then the buyer is injured when the horse spooks, you have potential liability.
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