Thanks to COVID-19, I took an extensive pay cut at work. I'm thankful to still have a job and benefits, but I am definitely not making as much money. This was my first year to be able to take a horse to the breeding shed, and have our first homegrown baby, but it would really put a financial strain on me. Granted, if the economy bounces back in the fall I'd be okay but I know there is no timeline for when things are going to return to normal.

This was my chance to match some dream bloodlines, and the mare is 19 this year. Do I take the chance and breed or do I back out and play it safe?

I think I know what I NEED to do, its just hard to make the final decision.

I'd keep the breeding. Next year, if everything is back to "normal", you'll be glad you did!

It's a gamble, but I'd do it. 

How much have you paid already? I mean If the stud fee is paid in full I would go ahead. 

I have canceled breedings due to really close family deaths and just being so overwhelmed, I however did lose my deposit to one stallion. So be aware you may not get any money back if your hopeing too. 

I have also seen several stallion owners say they understand how hard it is right now and are willing to work with mare owners to make breeding season happen. It might be worth reaching out and talking to the stallion owner about your concerns. Most are absoultly fantastic and do everything they can to help mare owners. 

Do not put yourself in a financial situation for a baby. 

Nobody knows how bad this thing is going to wound the the economy. 

You might have the opportunity to buy a prospect down the road at a reasonable price. 

I paid a $350 booking fee, but thats it. I didn't pay anything else yet cause the mare was still pregnant and I wanted to make sure she foaled out safely before confirming her to the stud. So there's that at least.

Its worth asking if we can roll that booking fee to next year, even if they do say no.

take the chance..........it takes so long to get a baby on the ground..........you will be fine........

I think theres so many factors to consider. I do agree above who said dont go broke because if a horse. 

I'm lucky we put up our own feed and have kits of pasture so I'm more secure than most even if I'm completely broke I have beef and a house so I gamble a tad more than I maybe should lol.