As explained in the site Terms of Use which are accepted upon entering the site, advertisers are solely responsible for their adverts. This includes ensuring that all information is legal, accurate, and genuinely reflects the animal or items offered. We are not able to verify the accuracy of any description, nor can we judge whether complaints received are legitimate.

The NFED acts only as a point of contact. Any arrangements, payments, or contracts made between buyer and seller are entirely the responsibility of the parties involved. We cannot provide or share personal information, so please ensure that any important details, contracts, or records are kept securely by you.

In the event of a dispute between users, we cannot act as a mediator. We recommend contacting your local Trading Standards office or another appropriate official body for guidance. We may then be guided by their findings.

Approval of an advert simply confirms that it meets our rules and guidelines. It does not endorse the advert, the advertiser, the information provided, or any accompanying photos in any way.

Taking the above into account if you still wish to submit a report, Click Here.

If necessary, the advertiser will be informed that a complaint has been received and reminded of their legal responsibilities. However, the complainant’s details will remain confidential. The advertiser may then choose to remove or amend the advert if they believe any part of it is inaccurate.

Should any formal investigation arise, all relevant correspondence may be passed to the appropriate official authority for potential use as evidence. If the complaint is upheld, the advertiser may be liable for any refunds or damages resulting from losses caused.

Horses can be unpredictable at the best of times, and this is especially true when trying an unfamiliar horse for the first time or when a horse is settling into a new home. Any change to a horse’s routine — such as moving yards, a new rider, different tack, or alterations to feed — can result in significant changes in behaviour. This should always be taken into consideration.

Dealers: Buying from a reputable horse dealer can offer additional protection. If you encounter a problem, you must first raise the issue directly with the dealer, as purchases from a dealer are covered under the Sale of Goods Act. If the dealer does not resolve your complaint satisfactorily, or you believe the horse has been falsely advertised, you should then contact Trading Standards.

Trading Standards have the authority, resources, and expertise to investigate properly and fairly, taking into account all the facts from both parties. They can take action where necessary, including issuing enforcement notices, closing businesses, or pursuing prosecution.

Welfare issues should be reported to official bodies who have the power to investigate individual cases properly, then take action & prosecute if necessary. This is the only way to prevent reoccurrence.
www.worldhorsewelfare.org/
www.rspca.org.uk/

Livery Yards: If you are considering moving to a new yard, we strongly recommend thoroughly checking all facilities and speaking with existing liveries to gain a fair and balanced understanding of how the yard is run. Ultimately, you should use your own judgement to decide whether the yard is right for you.

A written livery agreement, clearly outlining the responsibilities and expectations of both parties, is highly advisable and can prevent many misunderstandings. Livery agreements or contracts are readily available online from reputable sources, including the BHS.

As in all areas of life, there are both good and bad yard owners and liveries. If either party has concerns, it is far better to discuss the matter privately and constructively, referring back to the livery agreement where necessary.

From time to time, we receive an advert or photo that may be controversial, cause disagreement, or go against popular opinion, yet still complies with our guidelines and does not breach UK law. In these situations, the pros and cons of accepting the advert or photo are considered very carefully.

If deliberate cruelty is involved, it is unlikely that an advertiser would openly display it. In most cases, issues are more likely to arise from ignorance, poor judgement, or perceived necessity. Often, any harm has already occurred before the advert is placed. In such circumstances, it can be kinder and more constructive to accept the advert or photo, even if it may attract criticism. Concerned readers will often offer advice or challenge the advertiser, which may help prevent similar situations in future, and—importantly—may help the animal find a new home and a second chance more quickly. If it later appears that deliberate cruelty is involved, we hold the advertiser’s details and may pass these to the appropriate official authorities if requested or required.

The alternative would be to reject the advert or remove the wording or images that some find offensive. While this would be the easier option for us, simply turning a blind eye would not prevent the situation from recurring, nor would it help the animal concerned. Please be assured that by accepting an advert or photo, we are not—and would never—condone abuse or cruelty in any form.