Horse Loan Agreements
Specialist legal advice for clear and fair horse loan agreements
Equine lawyers for horse loans
Loaning out a horse can be good for horse owners who may have outgrown a horse or no longer be able to ride it themselves but do not want to sell it.
For the person loaning the horse, it gives them the opportunity to experience having a horse of their own without the expense.
However, problems can arise when horses are being loaned. From disagreements over its day-to-day care and medical treatments to what to feed it. As a result, it is vital to have a horse loan agreement in place before the loan commences. This will define each parties’ obligations and protect them in the event of a dispute.
Our Equine Law specialists have a wealth of experience in drawing up horse loan agreements. We can ensure there are no grey areas, and your horse is protected both now and in the future.

Can I draw up my own horse loan agreement?
You can draw up your own horse loan agreement using an online template. As these are generic templates, they don’t cover your specific agreement or situation.
The best horse loan agreement is one that is tailored to your specific situation. It will cover all the important areas and protect you if a dispute arises between the parties.
We recommend instructing a solicitor who specialises in equine law. They will be able to ensure your horse loan agreement protects your interests.
Are horse loan agreements legally binding?
Yes, a horse loan agreement is a legally binding document. It will protect the parties who have entered into the agreement if one side breaches it.
What should I include in a horse loan agreement?
Areas you might cover in a horse loan agreement include:
- How long the loan will last and whether it can be cancelled earlier
- How the horse can be used (e.g. breeding)
- Who can ride the horse
- Whether a specific vet will treat the horse
- Information about the general care of the horse such as stabling, vaccinations, feed supplements
- What will happen if you sell the horse (e.g., will the person loaning it get first refusal)
- A clause explaining what will happen in the event of a dispute

How do I draw up a syndicate agreement?
Syndicate agreements are complex documents. As such, you should talk to an equine lawyer experienced in writing them.
Syndicate agreements often include;
- Information on financial contributions
- How the horse and shares will be sold
- Details about insurance in case of accident or injury, and
- What would happen to the share of the horse if a syndicate member were to die or become bankrupt
Syndicates can also be formed by different structures. Our specialist equine solicitors have extensive knowledge of equine law. We can help you work out the best structure for your syndicate agreement.
What should I do before entering into an agreement?
Before agreeing to the loan, it is a good idea to view and try the horse and have questions to ask the owner, in the same way that you would if you were going to buy the horse.
If you can, have the horse for a trial period before the loan commences. Then, finalise and sign the loan agreement before the loan commences.
It is also important to have third party liability insurance in place. This will protect you in case the horse injures another person or damages someone’s property.

Why use Rothera Bray for horse loan agreements?
We have significant experience in drawing up horse loan agreements. We will work with you to create a tailored agreement that meets the specific requirements of you and your horse
We can also advise you on:
- Horse sale or purchase agreements
- Horse co-ownership agreements
- Livery agreements
- Equine law disputes
- Veterinary negligence
- Horse riding accident claims
We strive to make every matter as stress free as possible






