We are considering the purchase of a well seasoned 8 yr old gelding for our 10 yr old daughter. She will be using him for Poles, Barrels, 4-H and trail. The seller has indicated that his left hock is fused and the right is not. I am planning to do a pre-purchase exam with x-rays.
However, I’m wondering if he is up to the amount of practice she will need (just being a beginner at poles/barrels). I have been told that once the bones fuse that much of the pain will subside, but his movement will be limited.
Is this something that may cost me a small fortune down the road for vet bills?
Thanks!
Kathy
You need to be asking these questions of your vet when you do the pre-purchase exam. A lot will depend on the pain tolerance of the horse and the extent of deterioration and damage in the hock. Almost all barrel horses are going to require some kind of maintenance if you use them enough so it’s a given that there will be some additional cost involved in the upkeep of this horse. How much use he will be able to stand will be something that you and your vet will have to determine. It may or may not cost you a fortune but rest assured it will involve more than just the cost of the horse if you want the animal to have a long and useful performance career.
Martha Wright
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