There are some further points to consider regarding horse auctions. These are not the end point for any horse that is not sold - those that remain are trucked off thousands of miles to either Mexico or Canada to be slaughtered for various purposes - dog food, rendering and for human consumption. Despite the lack of perfection you may find at an auction buying a horse from an auction can save that animal from a torturous few days and a very ignoble end. There are many gems to be found and a good trainer can help make even the most unsuitable animal someone you can work with and care for. I do agree with the cautions that you provide Kim but until breeders and horse people in general become more responsible auctions are a great place to find that special someone - we cannot save them all but we can provide a good life to that one special horse that touches us out of a pack destined for death.