Hey everyone, I have a friend who has a really adorable miniature pony (he's really about 9hands) that jumps xrails at the local fun shows. The rider who has worked with him all last year has sadly outgrown him. His owner has decided to lease him, which we all agree is a sensible idea for him to get more experience (he's only 4).The issue is that myself and her family/friends have a few concerns about the whole lease process.
After having him listed for lease for a few months on a well known website, a family from NC (we're in west TN) has shown interest in leasing the little guy. The main concern I have is the distance (over a 10hr drive from here) and the fact that none of us has any experience with leasing a show pony.
Any comments/suggestions/information I can take to her to help her with her decision? I'm truly worried for the little guy, Squirt is endeared to all of our hearts out at our barn and we want only the best for him!

Oh dear - def have a contract in place that stipulates EVERYTHING that could happen. ie, who's responsible for care (including vet care), any requirements the little guy might have, feeding, shoeing, period of lease, early termination, etc.

There are major implications to leasing your horse out and you should protect both yourself and your horse as much as possible.

Unfortunately not even a contract can ensure your horse will receive the right care, I learned that lesson the hard way. Make sure you obtain references, and check them out. Try to have someone check on your horse from time to time to ensure they are being cared for properly...having the horse 10 hrs away might make that more difficult, but a lot can go wrong on the wrong lease situation.

Best of luck!

This message has been edited. Last edited by: ChristinaW,