Mare question on breeding

[xena6174]

I bought a mare that I use as a trail horse. She is a retired broodmare and hasn't ben PG since 2003. She has 5 babies total. First 2 were perfect, 3rd died 4 days after birth, 4th was born with inverted feet, and 5th had something wrong with him, don't know what. The owner donated the last 2 to UF and they were put down. I am wondering since they all had differant sirs, is it risky to breed her with the last 3 having issues?She is 17 years old now, is that to old? And last question, if you think it's ok to breed her, (she is sorrell) what color horse would make the best looking babies? Thanks!

[yukidragon]

17 is not too old.
The problems she has with foals are a heart breaker when you have to wait 11 months for a foal an if its bad news then a pile of vet bills on top of that.
i'd run the other way fast as you can.
Might buy a horse needing a home etc... go from there.
Good luck.