someone illegally sold me a horse

I don't know what state you are in. In California.. even if you unkowingly purchase any item that is stolen, then you can go to jail for buying stolen property. You should try contacting the 'owner' again. Give the same option that she gave the dishonest person, and make a contract with her. You should get an attorney. Find one that specializes in livestock or horses. You could even bring up your childs condition to get a sympathy vote in your favor. Its a shame that there are so many dishonest people out there. It just makes it harder for us honest people.

Oops.. maybe not the same agreement, but that she could use the mare for a foal if bred in the next year, I would not leave it with out a closed date. Because if you are going to show,or if your child is, then you will be out a show season due to the foaling. I would put time limits .

I usually just read on this forum, but had to join to address this thread. Please, PLEASE contact an attorney before you do ANYTHING. Laws differ depending on the state, or even locality. Further, a lot of the advice you have been given has been incorrect and may end up costing you even more money. One thing I will say, GENERALLY you will not be able keep the horse AND get your money back. Obviously, if the horse is unable to be registered, there is SOME leeway to that general rule. However, it is HIGHLY unlikely that you are going to get to keep the horse, get $4000 back, plus all your costs. Or even the majority of that.

This is why I am stating that you need to speak with an attorney to actually determine what you ARE entitled to and don't waste a bunch of money suing for amounts you will not receive. (I honestly think this situation SHOULD be able to be resolved outside of court since the ONLY thing you are out is the registration papers. What happens now between the original owner and the seller is really of no concern to you as long as you get the registration papers.)