Arthritic horse?

[sheltiegroomer]

Hi there I am looking at a lovely horse on full loan, he's a forward going lad but owners have put him on loan as they wanted a showjumper and he has been diagnosed with arthritis in his stifle joints....in effect he is lame on 2 legs poss 3...
I really like this lad and although I would NEVER buy a pony or horse who wasn't at least vetted to be a hundred percent what is everyones take on loaning him? He's good in walk, trot and canter,,,feels a little stiff in trot but loosens up after a while!!

Anyway what does everyone think... I'd love to hear opinions as im undecided... (he is not on any meds btw):)

[lachlanandmarcu]

If you can remain fairly unattached to the horse (I know!) then I would consider it, but if not I wouldnt do it, only because the potential upsettingness would be horrid, even with a loan horse. But Im a softy so get too attached.....

[Cheeky]

You need to look at it logically.

What do you want to do with a loan horse?

Are you willing to spend weeks not being able to ride?

Are you able to afford the care (some horses need monthly shots, drugs etc.. ).

Personally, I wouldn't. If I was paying for a loan, I'd want to have a sound horse.