If you’re thinking about adopting a rescue horse, it’s important that you gather as much information as possible so you know what it takes to care for it. It’s not an easy task and it requires lots of time, care, and patience. Before you jump in, speak with other rescue horse owners or even your local veterinarian. We here at Equis Save Foundation have gathered some information and helpful tips for you to consider before making the commitment.
See the Bigger Picture
The number one tip for adopting a rescue horse is to do a thorough examination of the bigger picture. That involves facing some rather difficult questions. Do you have the money, time, and know-how to care for a horse? You’re about to make a major decision, so it’s crucial that you are prepared for a long-haul relationship with a horse that may not have had a great life thus far. There is so much more to caring for a horse than simply making sure it’s getting enough food, water, and exercise.
Keep Looking Inward
You need to gauge your expectations and ask yourself what you want from the experience? Are you simply interested in providing a stable and loving home for an abandoned animal? If you’re not particularly experienced with horses, one good way to measure your intent is to volunteer. Find a local rescue shelter or take riding lessons at a local horse farm. This will ensure you know what to expect when adopting a rescue horse.
Seek Assistance
You will want to seek professional and practical guidance. Talk to people who raise horses for a living. Seek out someone who has adopted a rescue horse and knows the ropes. They will have a wealth of information that can inform your decision to move forward. Having a pro on your side will ensure that you are paired with the right horse and vice versa. Meanwhile, it would be wise to develop relationships with these people for the future, when you’ll undoubtedly encounter some unfamiliar situations.
Meanwhile, talk to a veterinarian about conducting an examination of the horse, before you finalize the adoption. You’ll need to know more than just the superficial appearance of the horse. For example, the horse may appear to be perfectly healthy, but in reality, has some internal problems that could worsen, and therefore, complicate things.
Consider the Commitment
You want to make sure that you understand that adopting a horse is not unlike adopting a child. Do you have enough experience with horses to comprehend everything that’s involved, beyond the basic care? Have you considered the duration of the relationship? Keep in mind that healthy horses, abandoned or not, generally have a lifespan of 20 years or more. At the same time, you may or may not be boarding the horse at a barn. You’ll want to have a good relationship with the animal’s primary caretakers, too.
Adopting a rescue horse is one of the most noble and compassionate endeavors anybody could ever take on. It’s simply a matter of whether or not you’re ready for the challenge, and have the budget to pay for it. If you’re interested in adopting a rescue horse, check out Equis Save Foundation.
