TB Prospect
So, my friend runs a TB rescue and I am on Trainer Listings and TB websites daily looking at possible prospects.
I came across this guy and, while she cannot take him for the rescue, I'm almost tempted to consider getting him for me. The problem is (well, other than the fact that he's about FIVE HOURS AWAY) that he's had multiple splint issues. They admit that he is only good for the flat and I'm interested because I'm hoping to take up dressage and finding an "in need" TB at the same time would be clutch.
Description is here:
"Empire Bill is a 17 hand, 8 year old, bay gelding with loads of personality. He is easy to handle and great to be around, Bill has a personality that cannot be denied.
He has had three splints removed- one two years ago, one a year and a half ago, and one about three months ago. He had significant swelling in his right front (most recent splint removal) after his last race, so the trainer has decided to retire him. Photos are from just a few days after his last race. Bill would be suitable for flat riding only. $2000 negotiable."
Picture is also here - http://canterusa.org/~cant3r09/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=6704:empire-bill&catid=51:mountaineer-trainer-listings (won't let me post pic itself, arrrrrgh)
There's NO way I would pay $2,000 for him. In this economy with his previous injuries (and the fees it would take to ship him), I probably wouldn't pay more than $800.
Has anyone had any experience with multiple splint injuries, especially in regard to TBs? I have NOT seen this horse in person or in video, this is in very very preliminary thinking stages. I would be getting him vet checked as well. (Also, if anyone here HAPPENS to work or know someone who works at Mountaineer Race Track, feel free to send me a PM)
Any overall thoughts as to this situation? Am I a moron for even considering this? (Yes, you can tell me the truth) I just don't think that he's going to have too many possibilities for a good rehoming situation :/
I came across this guy and, while she cannot take him for the rescue, I'm almost tempted to consider getting him for me. The problem is (well, other than the fact that he's about FIVE HOURS AWAY) that he's had multiple splint issues. They admit that he is only good for the flat and I'm interested because I'm hoping to take up dressage and finding an "in need" TB at the same time would be clutch.
Description is here:
"Empire Bill is a 17 hand, 8 year old, bay gelding with loads of personality. He is easy to handle and great to be around, Bill has a personality that cannot be denied.
He has had three splints removed- one two years ago, one a year and a half ago, and one about three months ago. He had significant swelling in his right front (most recent splint removal) after his last race, so the trainer has decided to retire him. Photos are from just a few days after his last race. Bill would be suitable for flat riding only. $2000 negotiable."
Picture is also here - http://canterusa.org/~cant3r09/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=6704:empire-bill&catid=51:mountaineer-trainer-listings (won't let me post pic itself, arrrrrgh)
There's NO way I would pay $2,000 for him. In this economy with his previous injuries (and the fees it would take to ship him), I probably wouldn't pay more than $800.
Has anyone had any experience with multiple splint injuries, especially in regard to TBs? I have NOT seen this horse in person or in video, this is in very very preliminary thinking stages. I would be getting him vet checked as well. (Also, if anyone here HAPPENS to work or know someone who works at Mountaineer Race Track, feel free to send me a PM)
Any overall thoughts as to this situation? Am I a moron for even considering this? (Yes, you can tell me the truth) I just don't think that he's going to have too many possibilities for a good rehoming situation :/