Training
CANTER listed horses have had NO RE-TRAINING unless otherwise stated in their ad. Up to this point, they have only known how to be elite athletes engaged in a very rigorous lifestyle. Most racehorses need a period of “let-down” time (usually a few weeks, but track injuries or other circumstances may prolong this time frame) in a pasture before being restarted or ridden. In other words; be prepared to let your new horse be a horse for a while! A bit of sunshine and grass does wonders, and helps to ease the transition. Please ensure that you account for this period of rest when considering your goals with your Thoroughbred. Off-track racehorses are generally not suitable for children or beginners without further training by experienced riders.
No person is allowed to ride a horse on racetrack property without a valid Louisiana Racing Commission license. If a horse straight off the track is not for you, please consider adopting a racehorse that’s already had re-training through a CANTER-Owned program, or another regional program such as Remember Me Rescue or LOPE.
Location
Most horses are located at Evangeline Downs Racetrack or Copper Crowne Training Center in Opelousas, with occasional listings from Delta Downs, Louisiana Downs, and Fairgrounds Racetrack. Some may be located on private farms. The location of each horse will be listed in their individual ads.
Guarantees
CANTER does not guarantee the validity of any statement in an ad, nor guarantee the condition, soundness or suitability of any horse at any time. The descriptions and all information in the ad are provided to us by the individual selling the horse and we have not verified all claims therein. This includes information on any injuries, training experience, etc. Volunteers taking the listing may only spend a few minutes with each horse, or none at all if the owner/trainer sends us the listing themselves. They can only contribute their observations in that short time, which may or may not be fully accurate representations of the horse. It is the buyers responsibility to use discretion and do their own research.
Pre-Purchase Exams
CANTER strongly recommends a veterinary pre-purchase exam for all horses. Exams at the track must be performed by a veterinarian with a Louisiana racing commission license, and all exams will be at the buyers expense.
Prices
Most prices are negotiable, some very much so! Don’t let a horse’s price tag scare you away, it never hurts to make an offer. However, don’t waste an owner/trainers time by surprising them with a low offer after extensive conversation or viewing the horse – be upfront and honest about what you can afford/are willing to pay. If they don’t accept your offer, please do not argue about the price. Be polite, leave your information with them and ask them to contact you if they change their mind.
Be A Good Buyer
CANTER works very hard to establish positive relationships with owners and trainers at the racetrack. Please do your part and be courteous so we can continue to help these horses find homes!
– Make sure to read the entire ad before contacting an owner/trainer.
– Be honest about your experience and your expectations for the horse, this helps both you and the owner/trainer determine if the horse is the right fit for you. If one horse is not a good fit, there may be another just around the corner!
– The racetrack is a busy place, so be courteous to the owner/trainers who take the time to show you their horse. Many showings will happen in the early morning; be aware that chores, workouts or feedings may be occurring during your visit. Communicate with your contact if you are unable to make it to an appointment, and be sure that you are serious about purchasing if you do visit.
Incorrect Listings
If you find that a horse is already sold, or if the contact information is incorrect, please notify the CANTER affiliate the horse is listed under using the contact us page.
