Hello all,

Today I just found out what PMU horses were -- thought they were some sort of horses from PM University? Stupid, I know...

Well, now that I know what they are, I'm interested in adopting one. There is a Percheron at a rescue near where I live and I understand that many of the PMUs are draft or draft crosses which appeals to me as well.

My question, though, is if Draft Horses present more Health/Hoof issues than your run-of-the-mill QH or TB. I went and looked at a Percheron the other day and her hooves were TERRIBLE. All cracked and curlying up etc. She was being kept in a pasture that looked like it had some pretty rough terrain but was still concerned that this could be an issue with the breed.

If Draft horses are more prone to hoof problems, are those easily managed/prevented or does that mean the horse will be in for significant problems that would limit their activity level and quality of life?

Also, this mare is 6 years old and though she has been "ridden", she hasn't had any training. I'm not sure about her disposition either. If she is 6 years old and I adopted her and placed her in a quality facility with good trainers etc, do you think her personality would improve and that she would be trainable?

Thanks in advance for any questions/advice/suggestions you might have.

Cheers...

Nancy
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Hi Nancy,

Thanks for posting and for thinking about adopting a horse from the pregnant mares' urine (PMU) industry. Thanks also for the chuckle about the PM University. It is a confusing name and a confusing industry - partly because the concept is so hard to fathom!

I hope that other adopters will be able to give you "been there, done that" advice about the Draft horse health and training. In the meantime, you might find the resources section of PMURescue.org to be helpful.

I hope you have a successful adoption!

Hi Nancy,

I can only tell you what I have experienced in the short time I have had my filly a TB/Perch cross. In 2 1/2 yrs I have had Bella she has proven to be the best horse I have had. It took my farrier 10 minutes to teach her to lift her feet and get trimmed. I kid you not! Grant it she was not 6 yrs old, she was only 6 months at the time. But to date, her feet are much sturdier that my purebred TB feet who has abscessed every winter since I have owned him. As for personality, I have heard that drafts have the best personality for receptiveness & willingness. My thoughts, it depends on the horse and what it has gone through throughout its life. However, my filly, has been very receptive and willing to try anything. She is very docile and receptive of everything I do to her and with her. I got my filly from a picture on the web and I have absolutely no regrets. She has been one of my healthiest to this point and she is now almost 3. Good luck with your decision. Hope that helps.