5 Tips To Help You Find Your Next Rescue Horse

Adopting a rescue horse is a noble and rewarding cause. If you are starting to think about bringing home a rescue horse, these 5 tips can help you to successfully find your next rescue horse.

1. Know What You’re Looking For

Before you start browsing rescue horses up for adoption, think about what you’re looking for in a horse. Do you need a horse of a certain height or temperament? Do you have plans of riding or competing the horse? Or are you looking for any horse who could serve as a companion horse? Knowing what you’re looking for will help to keep you from getting distracted and falling in love with a horse who isn’t suitable for your needs.

Image source: smerikal via Flickr

2. Keep an Eye on Rescues in Your Area

Once you know what you want in a horse, it’s time to put together a list of local rescues in your area. Do a little research on each rescue to find out the types of horses they typically have, and then keep an eye on the horses which are up for adoption.

Image source: Tim Fuller via Flickr

3. Ask for Specifics About the Horse

If you’re interested in a horse, don’t be afraid to ask the rescue for specific information and details about the horse. If you will be taking on a horse with health issues, you will want to know as much information about the horse’s condition, treatment, and prognosis as possible. If a rescue is ever reluctant to provide you with that information, then walk away and continue your search for a horse with another rescue.

Image source: Todd Ryburn via Flickr

4. Make Multiple Visits

If you’re interested in a horse, visit him at least a few times before making the decision to adopt him. During these visits, bring a trainer or knowledgeable horse friend with you who can spot potential physical or behavioral issues with the horse. Seeing a horse repeatedly gives you a better idea of what his temperament is like, and can help to keep you from bringing home a horse who isn’t suitable for you.

Image source: smerikal via Flickr

5. Be Aware of Adoption Requirements

Before you get your heart set on a horse, familiarize yourself with that rescue’s adoption requirements. Some horse rescues have very specific requirements, and may have specifications in terms of the type of home they find suitable, required vet and farrier references, and even distance limits where they are willing to adopt their horses out. Be prepared for a home visit before you are allowed to adopt, too – it’s a common precaution to ensure that horses go to good homes.