Age of the horse is important, so take into account the following ranges:

1. Dressage horses can generally be competitive up through their mid-teens. Especially if the horse has attained FEI status, (international abilities), the value can zoom up. USDF Levels I to IV are relatively basic but the animals movements and conformation can add much.

2. Low level jumpers can usually last until their mid-teens.

3. Upper level jumpers, World Cup qualifiers and similar highly able horse athletes can usually perform to their upper teens, albeit with close veterinary supervision.

4. Reining horses have shot up in value since their acceptance into the Olympic Games. Age is important here, too but not much past 8 or 9 years old.

5. Cutting horses are generally more salable in their younger years, (read age 8 to 9 max). Young futurity horses with very good breeding lines can bring much in the NCHA Futurity auction late in the year. (Bidders are gambling on blood lines).

6. For Arabians, American Saddlebreds, American Standardbreds and any other breeds, please call 623-582-8635 and I’ll be happy to give out some free advice.

Divorce is very emotional and the more facts you have, the more assertive you can be in establishing values on mutually owned animals.