How to Avoid Deceptive Horse Traders When Purchasing Your First Horse in Texas: Nicole Breanz and Clay Watters Exposed
Purchasing your first horse can bring excitement, but it also comes with risks. The thrill of finding the perfect horse can quickly turn into frustration if you encounter dishonest traders. This blog focuses on two individuals, Nicole Breanz and Clay Watters, known for their deceptive practices. By shedding light on their tactics, you will be better prepared to navigate the horse-buying process safely.
Understanding the Red Flags and how to avoid sellers like Nicole Breanz
When buying a horse, spotting red flags is crucial. Deceptive traders usually rely on certain tactics to mislead potential buyers. They may exaggerate a horse's friendly nature or hide serious health issues. For instance, a trader might claim a horse won several competitions, only to find out later that it participated in only one and performed poorly. They will tell you how gentle the horse is only to find out later the horse can not be tied to a rail for brushing or tacking up. Below is a horse sold by Nicole Breanz as gentle for the elderly and even children can ride. She guaranteed the horse to be sound with clean X-rays. She never delivered any of the reports she said she had. This tells you, always get all reports promised by a seller in advance of any payment.
Knowing what to look for can save you from emotional distress and financial loss. Always research the breed and type of horse you're considering. According to the American Horse Council, about 25% of first-time horse buyers experience issues with their purchase shortly after the sale. Avoid being part of this statistic by staying informed and vigilant.
The X-Ray below shows one of Nicole Breanz's horses sold as perfectly sound that actually has a degenerative issue known as Kissing Spine. This issue was asked about before the purchas and Nicole Breanz told the buyer in no way does the horse exhibit any type of Kissing Spine and has been cleared by veternarians and chiropractors. This is a claim that she should have never made if she did not know the truth or if she did know and covered up the truth. Either way, once knowing that she sold a lame horse, she should have refunded the money immediately. She would not. Citing personal problems, money problems, family problems and other reasons she would not stand by her word.
Who Are Nicole Breanz and Clay Watters?
Nicole Breanz exemplifies the risks of dealing with unscrupulous traders. She presents herself as a "rehoming agent" for off-the-track Thoroughbreds, acquiring horses for as little as $200 to $300. Sadly, these horses often come with hidden ailments, which Breanz neglects to disclose when marketing them as family-friendly companions. Not only does she not disclose known temperament issues such as sitting back, and not being able to be tied for instance, she covers lameness issues with false claims of recent vet inspections claiming that the horse is all clear and she will provide the paperwork, however, that paperwork never arrives. She guarantees sound and sane horses and delivers the opposite. Pictured below is one of the horses sold for $4,000.00 that she claims ties easily to a rail with zero issues. She claims the horse is gentle enough for children and even the elderly to ride and be safe. What she doesn't say is that they may be severly injuried trying to brush, saddle or mount the horse before ever getting on.
Nicole Breanz's response to the multiple issues with this horse was that she has medical bills and personal problems, so she will not stand by her sale or refund any of the buyers money they paid for an unridable, dangerous horse.
In comparison, Clay Watters employs a subtler technique, often selling horses at higher-profile events to create an illusion of reliability. Although he doesn't blatantly misrepresent his horses, many buyers have reported discovering underlying behavioral issues after the sale, leaving them feeling cheated. This highlights the importance of remaining cautious, even when dealing with seemingly reputable sellers.
Do Your Research
Thorough research is your best defense against financial loss. For instance, Benbrook Stables, Cartwright Stables, and 4 Hearts Ranch are just a few in Fort Worth Texas known to be a reputable equestrian center praised for their commitment to ethical sales. Checking online reviews and seeking recommendations from local riding communities will go a long way in helping you identify trustworthy sellers.
Make use of social media platforms for customer feedback. Websites like Facebook have specific groups where horse buyers share their experiences, which can be incredibly helpful. One experienced rider shared that joining a local equestrian club not only improved her riding skills but also led to discovering reliable horse sellers through word of mouth.
Establish a Budget and Stick to It
A well-defined budget is essential when searching for a horse. On average, first-time buyers should expect to spend between $1,500 and $5,000 initially for a suitable horse. Be cautious of prices that seem unusually low, as these can often indicate hidden problems.
Investing in a pre-purchase exam is highly recommended, with studies showing that about 20% of horses bought without a proper evaluation require significant medical care shortly after purchase. A thorough vet check can save you from hidden costs related to injuries or illnesses.
Ask the Right Questions: Here are Just a Few
When you find a horse that interests you, come prepared with questions that help you gauge its suitability:
Has the horse ever been in competitions or shows?
What is its history regarding training and handling?
How well does it react to sudden loud noises or new environments?
Does the horse have any known issues such as cribbing, sitting back, bucking, rearing, standing for the farrier, or loading in a trailer?
Is the horse up to date on all current vaccinations and has a current coggins?
Will I have at least 72 hours to return the horse if I get him home and he is not the horse the seller advertised?
Is the horse registered and do I get the papers at the time of sale?
How long has the current seller owned the horse and where did they purchase the horse? Sale barn or somewhere else?
These questions can reveal important information about the horse's temperament and training history, helping you make a more informed decision.
Establish a Trust Relationship
Your interactions with the seller should inspire confidence. If you feel rushed or if your questions are dismissed, consider it a warning sign. Open communication is vital for a successful sale.
Trust your gut instincts. If you feel uncertain or uncomfortable, it’s perfectly acceptable to walk away. There are plenty of horses available; the right one will come along without the stress of dealing with a questionable seller. Always google your sellers name and look for such names like Nicole Breanz or Clay Watters who are know to the horse industry as unloading bad horses on people who trusted them or had the unfortunate experience of believing what they said about the horse in a horse auction.
Seek Professional Help
If the process feels overwhelming, don't hesitate to seek guidance from experienced equestrian professionals. Trainers or veterinarians can offer invaluable support, helping you understand the complexities of horse trading.
A knowledgeable trainer can assess a horse's potential while a vet can confirm its health status. For example, many buyers find it beneficial to consult a trainer who can ride the horse before purchase, ensuring it meets their specific needs.
Being Smarter in Your Horse Search
Finding the right horse is not just about impulse decisions. The experiences shared by buyers who faced deceptive practices highlight the need for caution. By educating yourself and remaining aware of common pitfalls, you can avoid falling victim to dishonest traders like Nicole Breanz.
Always remember: knowledge is power. Making informed decisions will ultimately lead you to a fulfilling and happy partnership with your first horse. Enjoy your journey and happy horse hunting!
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