Horse Handover Guide

Once your horse is sold, there are a few simple things worth doing before it leaves the property. A good handover gives the buyer the information they need and gives you a clear record of the horse’s condition when it left your care.

1. Complete the Horse Handover Record (Optional)

Before pick-up, complete the Manebid Horse Handover Sheet and give it to the buyer or transport driver, or send it digitally.

This document includes information about:

• Health — vaccination and worming history, recent veterinary treatment, known allergies or sensitivities, and any existing conditions.
• Feed — what the horse is currently being fed, how much, how often, and any supplements.
• Care — rugging, paddock or stable routine, farrier details, last trim or shoeing date, and any useful handling notes.

This information can make the move to a new home much easier for both the horse and the buyer.

Download the Manebid Horse Handover Record document here.

2. Take Photos Before the Horse Leaves (Recommended)

On the day of pick-up, take clear photos of the horse as close to loading time as possible. This gives you a record of the horse’s condition when they left the property. We recommend using a timestamp camera app such as Conota Camera, which adds the date and time directly to the photo.

Take at least:

• Near side — full body
• Off side — full body
• Front — showing both forelegs
• Rear — showing both hind legs and hindquarters

Use good lighting and, where possible, stand the horse on flat ground with a clear background.

3. Take a Short Video (Recommended)

It is also a good idea to take a short video of the horse walking naturally before they leave. We recommend filming:

• Walking from the near side
• Walking from the off side
• Walking away from the camera
• Walking back toward the camera

Keep the whole horse in frame and use flat, even ground.

4. Before Pick-Up

Before the horse leaves:

• Make sure the handover sheet is completed and ready
• Save your photos and videos
• Keep a backup copy for your records
• Check any rugs, gear or other items going with the horse
• Make sure the horse is clean, dry and ready for transport

Why It’s Worth Doing

A good handover only takes a few minutes, but it can be very useful if questions come up later. It gives the buyer clear information about the horse’s current care and gives the seller a record of the horse’s condition when they left the property. A little preparation can make the whole process smoother for everyone, especially the horse.