Buy Horses Online with Confidence at Equine.com
04/18/2007
Whether you’re a seasoned owner or a novice equestrian, it can be stressful to buy horses
online. At Equine.com, we strive to create a safe, simple
process for both buyers and sellers by reducing risks of scams and fraud, helping you find safe
horse transport companies and
constantly monitoring our site for suspect buyers or sellers.
To buy horses online easily and safely,
follow our tips below and enjoy a smooth transaction on Equine.com.
How to Buy a Horse Online: Tips and Tools
Request a purchase agreement - A purchase agreement protects both the buyer and seller in an online horse-buying agreement and prevents post-purchase disputes. When creating your purchase agreement, include specific, mutually agreed-upon details, including how you will accept payment, when and how payment must be made, who is responsible for shipping the horse, whether there will be a trial purchase period, what type of health examinations will be given, and whether there are circumstances that void the contract.
Use our message center, not private e-mail - Unlike your e-mail account, the Equine.com message center utilizes advanced tracking tools to block around 95 percent of all scam attempts. If a suspected scammer does contact you, using the message center makes it easier for us to record their actions – and to block them from contacting you or any other registered user again.
Report horse fraud immediately - Think you've been scammed or lied to during the buying or selling process? Contact your local authorities immediately, and also notify Equine.com. We’ll respond quickly, preventing future problems and addressing security concerns so you can buy horses with ease. Although horse fraud is uncommon on Equine.com, we rely on our customers to help us stop it.
Only use a reliable horse transport company - Horse transport can be dangerous, and it's important to choose a trustworthy company that will prevent injuries and mistreatment of your horse. When you buy horses online, look for a company that specializes in equine transport, not general shipping – they're more likely to have appropriate equipment. And most of all, ask plenty of questions before you choose a horse shipper. If you feel uncomfortable, check out other options.
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Request a purchase health examination and current negative Coggins test - A veterinarian's health examination assesses the overall health of a horse and helps prepare you for future health problems that might occur. The examination can also help give you an idea of the care a horse with a chronic problem will need, and advise you whether the horse is fit for the sort of work you plan for it. A Coggins test checks for equine infectious anemia, an incurable viral disease. Many states require a health examination and Coggins test prior to selling a horse, but even if your state does not, you are advised to get one.
Ask questions about the horse's health and injury history - Although a veterinarian can give a clean bill of health, it's also in your best interests to ask plenty of questions when you buy horses online. If a horse has been recently injured, you may want to wait – minor injuries can turn into major problems down the line. Also ask whether the horse has had recurring or major illnesses, which could affect the horse’s long-term health.
If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is - This may be the most important piece of advice to remember when you sell your horse or buy horses online. Always trust your instincts, and if a buyer or seller doesn't appear trustworthy, don't risk a horse's health or wellbeing just to make a sale.
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