“The Adoption Affaire has become a special part of Equine Affaire over the years, and we are honored to continue partnering with the ASPCA Right Horse Program in Ohio and in Massachusetts,” says Allison Rehnborg, marketing coordinator for Equine Affaire. “Visiting the Adoption Affaire stalls in the Horse & Farm Exhibits is an incredibly heartwarming experience at both of our events because you can see horses and people connecting in some truly special ways. I’ve had the privilege of hearing about the horses adopted at Equine Affaire thriving in their new homes months and years after the fact. Sometimes we even get to see them again because their owners bring them back to participate in our clinics or demos.”

Finding the Fun

The Adoption Affaire was a huge success from the get-go, and it continues to grow.

“We’ve noticed, especially over the last couple of years at the Ohio event, that public support is increasing,” says Bailey Richards, ASPCA Right Horse Program manager. “We’ve seen more people seek out the adoption barn instead of stumbling upon it.”

These visitors have expressed that they wanted to get to the barn early before all of the horses were adopted. But even if you aren’t specifically seeking out the Adoption Barn, you won’t have any trouble finding it.

“Equine Affaire is a fantastic partner of ours,” says Richards. “They let us put up signs across the whole area.”

In addition, whenever they are out of their stalls, adoptable horses wear special bright orange saddle pads and coolers with the words “adopt me” in large letters. Anyone with questions can talk directly with the horses’ handlers or visit the ASPCA Right Horse booth.

Richards says that you might also become aware of the Adoption Affaire when you see horses strolling down an orange carpet accompanied by a ringing bell and an announcement that they have been adopted. Adopted horses and their owners are treated like celebrities with photos and cheering to celebrate the occasion.

Finally, during a showcase activity, adoptable horses are brought out to perform while information about them is shared.

Success Stories Abound

According to Richards, ASPCA Right Horse Partners brought 32 horses to the Equine Affaire this past April in Ohio. Twenty-eight of those were adopted on-site. As they were returning home, interest in adoption was expressed for the remaining four horses.

Some of the most memorable adoption stories include Brianne, who adopted her first horse, Tootsie, at the 2023 Equine Affaire Ohio. In 2024, she returned with her husband to volunteer at the adoption barn. During the event, Brianne, who is expecting a baby, became interested in adding a second adoptable equine to add to the family, Toledo. Her husband, Hunter, then arranged for a surprise adoption!

Another adoption success story is that of Noelle. Noelle, a 30-year-old pony, prefers children to adults and had strong preferences about who her adopter might be. Harper, Noelle’s eventual adopter, felt equally strong about finding her perfect match. During the Ohio Equine Affaire, the two formed an instant, mutual connection that led to an adoption and new partnership.

Planning for Massachusetts

Equine Affaire Massachusetts is set for November 6-9, 2025, and the Adoption Affaire will be featured within the Horse & Farm Exhibits area in C-Barn. The Adoption Affaire will include a variety of rescues and sanctuaries with healthy, trained, adoptable horses of a variety of breeds, backgrounds, and ages. Attendees can meet the horses in person and apply to adopt on the spot. Regardless of your specific reason for attending the event, a chance to meet, learn more, and potentially adopt a horse is a can’t-miss occasion.

This article about the Adoption Affaire at Equine Affaire appeared in the November/December 2024 issue of Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

The post The Adoption Affaire at Equine Affaire appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Still, his show ring career wasn’t over. From there, we transitioned to a successful second career in dressage. After several good years, it was time to let this career go, too. By then in his early 30s but still not content to be fully retired, his final job was as a leadline mount for my then-young daughter. His full retirement, when it finally came a few years later, was something I felt we were both happy and comfortable with.

On the other hand, my half-Arabian mare, Sally, was an example of a difficult early retirement. A highly versatile horse, just one of her many talents was her performance in the hunter ring.

However, despite my best efforts, she has never truly been a healthy horse. Some of her health conditions we have been able to name and treat. Though these issues may have limited her, they never took her completely out of the game.

Other conditions have been mysterious and less well-managed due to their undefined nature; her treatments have been a roller coaster of successes and failures. Numerous tests have led to dead ends leading to more significant restrictions.

Though still in her early 20s, her most recent job change has been from a semi-retired trail horse to pasture-sound companion horse. By outward appearances, she looks amazing, but she is unable to tolerate a rider.

Soundness and Injuries

With so many possible retirement scenarios, what is considered an average age for retirement? What is considered an early retirement?

The decision to retire a horse is based on several different factors, according to Jud Easterwood, DVM, of Easterwood Equine Hospital in Calera, Ala.

“Most of these factors are health or soundness related,” he says. “I don’t think there is an average age. We have some horses that are able to perform well into their 20s. Other horses have had significant injuries that lead to chronic lameness or issues with pain. These horses have to retire much earlier.”

Easterwood says that he considers “early” retirement one that occurs before the age of 20. In his experience, these unfortunate early retirement scenarios are usually centered around tendon or suspensory ligament injuries. He says they can also be brought on by conditions such as arthritis or ringbone.

“Any serious injury could result in these conditions that a horse can’t overcome to get back into high-level performance work,” he says.

Metabolic & Back Problems

Sometimes, conditions such as PPID and the insulin resistance that sometimes accompanies it can necessitate early retirement, especially when it leads to other conditions, such as chronic laminitis and potentially founder. Easterwood says that while these issues are typically seen in horses over the age of 20, they do occasionally occur in younger horses, too.

Over the years, because imaging has improved, he notes that horses being diagnosed with back problems have also become much more common. Rather than undiagnosed pain, he says we are now able to pinpoint kissing spines and neck arthritis.

“These may not stand out to you like leg lameness, but they create an overall sour behavior or back soreness,” says Easterwood. Depending on their severity, these may also require retirement.

Signs That It’s Time to Retire

What are the signs that your horse may be ready to retire?

“Any sort of chronic lameness or pain issues would be the No. 1 condition that leads to retirement,” says Easterwood. “No. 2 is when the horse doesn’t enjoy his job anymore and has become sour.”

He also lists conditions such as liver disease; inflammatory bowel disease that leads to chronic diarrhea and weight loss; neurological diseases that cause ataxia, such as EPM or (less commonly) West Nile virus; or any condition that is difficult to treat and that leads to performance problems.

Semi or Full Retirement?

Regardless of age, when you decide to retire your horse, you’ll need to consider partial or full retirement. Easterwood says that he likes to use the words “serviceably sound” with owners considering partial retirement for their horses.

“You may have a horse that is not 100 percent sound and is no longer suitable for show jumping, barrel racing, or other types of intense performance sports,” he says. “But [semi-retirement is an option] if the horse is still able to get around fine and enjoy doing activities such as trail riding, flat work, ground work, or being ridden in lessons.”

He says some horses can do these things well and maintain a good exercise regimen, even though they are stepping back from their previous high-intensity careers.

However, there is one important caveat that Easterwood advises for owners considering semi-retirement. If you’re considering having a child take over the ride on your horse, he advises having the horse evaluated by a veterinarian to determine whether there are any issues the horse may have with tripping and falling in order to prevent potentially devastating accidents.

Whether or not semi or full retirement is a happy occasion for your horse depends on several factors.

Easterwood’s first recommendation for keeping retirees engaged is to exercise as tolerated. Keeping horses stabled or pastured near high-activity areas can also help keep retirees engaged, while stall or pasture toys can provide further enrichment.

Prolonging Soundness

While retirement may be inevitable for most horses, there are some steps you can take to extend your horse’s working career. Easterwood says that good veterinary care is a staple to keeping horses sound and happy in their job.

“It doesn’t have to be frequent,” he says. “I recommend annual to biannual X-rays and lameness evaluations to make sure you are keeping up with any changes to previous injuries and to make sure that nothing new has developed.”

If conditions such as arthritis, degenerative joint disease, or joint injuries exist, he recommends the use of prescription intramuscular injections for their treatment. He says that veterinarians also sometimes use intra-articular injections to relieve pain and keep horses comfortable.

Even if your horse is free of any condition requiring injections, Easterwood says that oral supplements can work to reduce wear and tear. He also says that therapies such as chiropractic adjustments, massage, acupuncture, and PEMF treatments can augment traditional veterinary care to the benefit of your horse.

Easterwood also advises screening for metabolic diseases as the horse ages, but also if your horse exhibits any signs any signs that warrant it.

Though no guarantee, the above steps, along with maintaining a good diet and exercise plan—as well as updated vaccinations, deworming, and dental care—can go a long way toward ensuring that your horse enjoys a long career.

By and large, the decision to retire your horse can be one of the more difficult decisions that horse owners face. By watching for indications and taking the appropriate steps, you can rest assured that you are making the best decisions for your horse’s future.

This article about when to retire your horse appeared in the October 2024 issue of Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

The post When Is It Time to Retire Your Horse? appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Imagine finding the horse of your dreams online, only to discover that he was thousands of miles away. While that may not be an unusual traditional horse shopping experience, for a potential adoptive family, it can seem like an insurmountable obstacle. The good news is that doesn’t need to be the case.

Geographic Barrier

No story about long-distance horse adoption would be complete without at least mentioning sisters Ava and Ilana of West Virginia. Ilana, 12, had already adopted a local horse, but Ava, 11, while reading an article titled “Reimagining Racers” in the March 2023 issue of Horse Illustrated, wanted to adopt a second one.

The story led her to the myrighthorse.org website, the ASPCA’s online adoption platform for equines, where she discovered Little Man, the horse she wanted to call her own.

The catch? He was located more than 1,000 miles away at the ASPCA Equine Transition and Adoption Center (ETAC) near Oklahoma City, Okla. Undeterred, Ava worked together with her family to facilitate the long-distance adoption and bring her new horse home.

Raising Awareness

While the tenacity of youth can almost always be counted on to overcome obstacles, long-distance horse adoption can also be easy for the rest of us.

Libby Hanon, equine adoption and marketing specialist with the ASPCA, has some great advice to anyone in this situation. One of the first barriers she faces in placing horses in long-distance adoptable homes is awareness.

“We strive to make people aware that there are adoptable horses nationwide,” she says. “The ASPCA has tried to eliminate that barrier via myrighthorse.org. It’s a powerful tool that brings awareness to adoptable horses. It showcases adoptable horses from 40-plus ASPCA Right Horse Partners.”

She says that these partners are the best of the best, putting horses through a comprehensive intake process, including veterinary and training evaluations, so that they can provide the information that potential adopters seek when searching the website.

Not Sight Unseen

Another potential long-distance barrier for horse adoption is that, for a variety of reasons, the prospective adopter may not be able to physically see the horse before they decide to adopt him. Here again, the ASPCA and Right Horse Adoption Partners work to reduce or eliminate the barrier.

“We pride ourselves on transparency,” says Hanon. “We do everything possible to make the adopter feel as if they are having that in-person experience.”

She says that her organization works with potential adopters through Zoom, FaceTime, or videos to facilitate a similar experience. Using technology, adopters can see the horse being caught in the pasture, groomed, ridden, loaded onto a trailer, and more.

Horse Adoption Express

Getting the horse to his adoptive home thousands of miles away may, at first, seem like a major complication. This is where the ASPCA’s Horse Adoption Express (HAE) program comes in.

“The HAE was instituted because we saw a need on different levels,” says Hanon. “One of those needs was to transport horses between Adoption Partners. Different breeds can have their popularity regionally.”

She describes HAE as a network of followers and transporters that can get horses to other Partners, where they can be adopted more easily.

Another aspect of HAE is to get horses to adopters more simply and economically.

“Getting a horse to an adopter is another way we are lowering those barriers to long-distance adoptions with the HAE program,” says Hanon.

The HAE transport-to-adopter stipend program is offered at any distance to companion or non-riding horses, and if ridable horses are located 250 miles or more away from their adopter, then they are also eligible for a stipend equal to half the cost of transport up to $500. Hanon says that on myrighthorse.org, around 70 percent of the inquiries and adoptions are happening long-distance.

That figure is echoed at the ASPCA, where 75 percent of the adoptions from ETAC in 2023 were long-distance.

Safety Net

Whether you buy or adopt a horse, sometimes things just don’t work out. One of the many positive aspects of horse adoption through an ASPCA Right Horse Partner is that no matter the distance, there are Partners nationwide that provide a safety net and will take these horses back.

Hanon says that successfully placing horses into adoptable homes is her passion.

“My mindset is that every inquiry I get, whether it be local or long-distance, is an opportunity to bring that person into our adoption family,” she says. “We make this doable. We make it fun.”

She explains that she wants adopters and potential adopters alike to feel like a community. The ASPCA encourages potential adopters to visit myrighthorse.org and inquire about their Right Horse with confidence, no matter the distance.

This article about ASPCA Right Horse’s solution to long-distance horse adoption appeared in the August 2024 issue of Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

The post Solutions for Long-Distance Horse Adoption appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Regardless of the evasion, horses who are difficult to bridle can make the process of tacking up an exercise in frustration. Brittany Malinoski of Brittany Lee Performance Horses in Lebanon, Tenn., offers this advice on how to correct these issues.

How Horses Become Evasive of the Bridle

Horses can develop these evasive tactics for any number of reasons.

“It could be that they never truly learned how to bridle correctly,” says Malinoski. “Or, it could be that they have had previous dental problems that caused them to lose trust in the bit or the hands of the rider. Finally, it could be the process of how the bridle is removed.”

Malinoski says that lesson horses, due to inexperienced handlers, are often prone to having their bridles removed too quickly.

“The students don’t slowly drop the bit down out of the horse’s mouth,” she says. “Instead, they may pull the bridle over the horse’s head and the bit gets caught on his teeth. The horse can panic or get scared, losing trust when the bridle is lowered.”

To help prevent issues with bridling from developing, Malinoski advises correctly training the process from the beginning, promptly addressing any dental troubles, and taking the time to make sure that the process of putting on and taking off the bridle is done slowly and correctly to avoid banging the horse in the mouth.

But prevention aside, what can you do if the problem with bridling is already well established?

Selecting a Location

Before beginning, Malinoski advises choosing an environment where you are setting up the training session for success. But the perfect location can vary, depending upon the method the horse uses to evade the bridle.

For example, she says that an arena can be ideal for a horse who actively backs away, while other issues, such as a horse who raises his head too high or one that refuses to accept the bit, may be better addressed in a more enclosed area, such as a grooming stall. As for equipment, Malinoski says that a simple rope halter and your horse’s bridle are all you need.

Steps to Lower the Head

For milder cases where the horse may simply be raising his head out of reach or refusing to take the bit, Malinoski begins the retraining process in a grooming stall with the horse wearing nothing more than a rope halter. She then introduces the idea to the horse to lower his head on command.

“This is accomplished by placing your hand on the horse’s head and applying pressure to his poll,” she says. She describes the process of holding the lead rope in your left hand and standing near and to the left of the horse’s head, then placing your right hand on the horse’s poll.

“When the horse lowers his head, you release the pressure,” says Malinoski. She elaborates that after getting the horse comfortable with his face and ears being touched, this process can also be useful when working with horses who are head or ear-shy. Malinoski does not introduce the bridle until the horse has become confirmed in this skill. Depending upon your horse, this may be in the first or later sessions.

Moving on to the Bridle

When the horse is ready, Malinoski explains that she repeats the process, this time using the bridle.

TIP: She says that while it is not necessary to have a certain bit for the retraining process, she advises having a bit that fits the horse properly. However, she says that practicing with a smaller bit, like a snaffle, can help regain trust.

After giving the command for the horse to lower his head from the direction of the poll, use your right hand to gently guide the bridle up into position while using your left hand to position the bit into place.

While she generally waits for the horse to open his mouth for the bit, if necessary, this can be encouraged by placing your thumb and middle finger on the bars on each side of the horse’s mouth and softly applying pressure.

TIP: Malinoski acknowledges that while some trainers use gimmicks such as applying products to the bit to make it taste good or holding a treat for the horse in the same hand as the bit, she is not a fan of these methods. This is mainly because these items may not be accessible when you are at a show or on a trail ride, and you can easily get into trouble if your horse won’t bridle without them.

With the bit in, the bridle can then be softly pulled up and into place. Once on, she lowers it back off, taking care not to bang the horse’s teeth with the bit in the process. She tries to do this a few times before ending the session.

Due to the extra space, Malinoski prefers the arena for working with horses who back away from the bridle. While she will still start the retraining process by teaching the command to lower the head when it comes time to put on the bridle, she then moves to the arena.

If the horse attempts to back away, she simply walks back with him until he stops and lowers his head.

“When that happens, I release the pressure,” she says.

Length of Retraining

Malinoski says that while the retraining process can take time, with patience and understanding, progress can happen in a relatively short span.

“If you work steadily at it, you should be able to make progress in about a week,” she says.

When the bridle goes on smoothly, release the pressure, and the horse has the reward of you taking it off. Malinoski explains that session lengths will vary by horse.

This article about bridling a horse that evades the bridle appeared in the May 2024 issue of Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

The post How to Bridle a Horse That Evades the Bridle appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

The beginning of Goobie’s adoption story is unfortunately not unusual. But for Goobie’s sake, thankfully it has a happy ending.

In a story, “Donkeys on Duty! Albert and Yankee Get New Jobs and Second Chances” posted on the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals’ (ASPCA) website, when a horse or donkey is being rehomed, it is often due to a change in their owner’s life circumstances. In Goobie’s case, he and his equine companion found themselves alone in the world when their elderly owner passed away.

Further complicating matters, there were no family or friends to step in and take over their care, illustrating the importance of an often-ignored area of equine ownership: having an emergency plan in place.

It was not until well-meaning neighbors intervened that local law enforcement officials collected Goobie and the horse, delivering them to River Edge Farm Horse Rescue near Lyles, Tenn., for care and adoption.

Although safe, Goobie’s story took another sad turn. While his partner soon found a good home, Goobie’s adoption proved a bit more challenging. One reason, perhaps, is that his beauty is found more in his personality than his physical appearance.

Companion Donkeys

Meanwhile, some 150 miles away, my journey toward adopting Goobie was unfolding.

In September 2021, I purchased a young American Warmblood gelding named Bucky. My herd already consisted of a Half-Arabian mare, Sally, and her companion donkey, Harmony.

Sally, who has metabolic issues, lives on a dry lot year-round, making it an easy management choice for the donkey, who flourishes (despite not facing similar issues) within her living arrangement.

Although I made it possible for Bucky to both see and hear his companions, it was important that they not be able to touch. Sally, extremely mareish, made plain her intention to injure him.

It quickly became clear that he needed a companion of his own. Even a system I developed to share Harmony’s companionship ultimately failed, expediting my need to find Bucky a new friend.

A Link to Goobie

A few months later, I had still not found a suitable companion equine. But by February 2022, Bucky and I were ready for the next step in our story, one that would ultimately lead us to Goobie.

My schedule as a teacher, writer, and farmer can be extremely full. I decided that for Bucky to be better prepared for the fun I had mapped out for us that spring, I would need to send him to a trainer, Brittany Malinoski in Lebanon, Tenn.

It was an enjoyable time in both our lives as Bucky progressed and my friendship with Brittany grew. Through our talks, I learned that in addition to client horses, Brittany also trains rescue horses for River Edge, a kind act that often makes them more adoptable. It was through her relationship with the farm that she became acquainted with Goobie.

During updates and riding lessons, we talked about my need for a donkey companion for Bucky. It was during one of these conversations that Brittany told me about Goobie and his plight. Based solely on her description, by the time Bucky’s 90 days of training ended, I had agreed to adopt him, sight unseen.

Meet and Greet

Because Bucky’s vacant training spot was being filled by a horse from River Edge, they kindly agreed to deliver Goobie when they brought the new horse to the facility where Brittany trains. The first time I met him, when my husband and I brought the truck and trailer to bring Bucky home, the two of them had already had an opportunity to become familiar with one another.

Even though he was about to catch the best break he’d had since his owner’s passing, in Goobie’s eyes, our arrival was an unwelcome surprise.

Despite being well-informed, I was a little taken aback by his appearance. Then, nervous and mostly unskilled at trailer loading, he refused to be caught so that he could be loaded.

Still, once he was caught, he willingly followed Bucky as he was brought onto our spacious stock trailer. I decided to press forward, and the pair quietly traveled home.

Opposites Attract

Over the last year and a half, Goobie has proven that beauty is much more than in the eye of the beholder, and he is doing well with his new companion.

He is as knowing as his ancient appearance suggests he would be, and he is a perfect partner for his young pasture mate. Spinning, trotting, galloping, and bucking at a moment’s notice, Bucky can be playful and unpredictable in the pasture.

Goobie, his polar opposite, offsets Bucky’s antics with his calming presence. Sometimes Bucky also enjoys a good play fight—biting, rearing, striking, and more. While Goobie is not always willing to join in, he is accepting of Bucky’s antics rather than fighting back, and he has become a wonderful instructor of manners to his young friend!

Donkey Differences

Despite his quiet inner beauty and good relationship with Bucky, their relatively new partnership does have its imperfections. While I considered myself somewhat knowledgeable about donkeys, since I had already owned a donkey for several years, Goobie has presented me with his own unique set of learning opportunities that differ from those of Harmony.

Far from halter broke, Goobie still adamantly refuses to be haltered. On the few times I have been able to manage it and experiment with the various styles and padding options of breakaway pasture halters, each has rubbed his sensitive skin. So for now, he remains halter-free. Instead, I have discovered that he will quietly allow himself to be wedged between a panel and a wall for routine farrier and veterinary care, something I hope to improve on in the future.

Goobie and I have arranged an understanding. Because I frequently bring Bucky and Goobie in from the pasture together, he willingly trots ahead on the way to the barn. Much like my other donkey, he lets me know when he wants attention and when he doesn’t, further narrowing down his preferences from a pat or scratch to a more extensive grooming session.

Basic Training

In their website story, “6 Tips for Getting Donkeys Adopted,” the ASPCA advocates for training donkeys to be haltered, led, groomed, loaded onto a trailer, and have their feet picked up. I believe these basics are important for all equids to ensure a safe landing in the event the unexpected happens.

Though I never intend for Goobie to find himself in an uncertain situation again, he is still very much a work in progress. In spite of the work still to come, I plan to provide him with a home for the rest of his life where he knows nothing but love and good care.

Though the adoption story that Goobie and I share is somewhat unusual, I strongly encourage anyone considering adopting a donkey to do their research and, if it seems like a good fit, begin the process of searching for your perfect match. You, too, may find an unusual but happy pairing.

This article about adopting a companion donkey appeared in the June 2024 issue of Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

The post An Unlikely Friend: Adopting a Companion Donkey appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Cheyenne & Whisper

Alexa Atchison of West Farmington, Ohio, had always dreamed of owning a horse.

“When I was told that I was going to get one, I couldn’t keep my eyes off myrighthorse.org,” Atchison says.

While much needed to be done before she and her family were able to bring a new horse home, when she saw Cheyenne and her dam advertised, they immediately planned a visit for the following day to ASPCA Right Horse Partner Happy Trails Farm Animal Sanctuary in nearby Raveena, Ohio. During the visit, while Atchison was busy meeting the horses, her father noticed the cute-faced Whisper in the stall across the aisle.

“Her fee happened to be waived for Adopt a Horse Month,” Atchison says. The family was smitten with her and signed the papers that evening. “I fell in love with Cheyenne, and Whisper was the perfect companion to help her leave her mother. I was thrilled, because not only did my dream come true with bringing Cheyenne home, but because of Adopt a Horse Month, we were able to bring Whisper home, too.”

Pony Hero

In 2024, Alina Bartlett of Springdale, Ark., adopted Hero. Bartlett had previously adopted other horses from the ASPCA Equine Transition and Adoption Center (ETAC) in El Reno, Okla., but unlike her other adoptions, Hero was not supposed to stay.

In the process of being relinquished by owners that could no longer care for him, Hero stayed with Bartlett overnight before she was to return him to the ETAC.

“He was coming to my house for only one night,” Bartlett recalls. She says that while she didn’t know Hero’s entire story, she did know that at some point he was mistreated. “In his younger years as he was growing, his halter had grown into his soft tissue and had to be surgically removed.”

Hero was also exhibiting some behavioral challenges while at Bartlett’s home. He was very nervous and untrusting around people. As such, Bartlett placed Hero in a stall and advised her boyfriend, David, to be watchful. Wanting to ease David’s mind, she also told him not to worry because the pony would be going back to the ASPCA in the morning.

A bit later, as Bartlett was feeding her other horses, she found David sitting in a lawn chair in the stall with Hero. Soon enough, Hero had taken to David and was allowing him to give pets and scratches, much to everyone’s surprise.

“I had no need for a pony, nor did I want this one,” Bartlett says. “I was taking this pony back and adopting another horse.” David, however, had another idea. He spent hours in the stall forming a bond with the timid little pony.

“David fell in love with this pony,” she says. The next morning, as she went to hook up her trailer and head out, David told her to call whoever she needed to and find out how to keep the pony.

Now, she says, on top of the many horses they already have, they also have a pony that is just around for David to love on.

“Hero is very spoiled and really only likes David,” Bartlett says. “He was meant to be here with David. They needed each other.”

Ella’s Story

“Adopt a Horse Month is such a great opportunity to promote our available equines,” says Allison Hungerford, director of communications for the Susquehanna SPCA in Cooperstown, N.Y., an ASPCA Right Horse Partner.

In 2024, the organization received a stipend from the ASPCA Right Horse program to spend on paid advertising for their horses, something that allowed them to expand their audience.

“The opportunity was one that I was grateful for because so many of our adoptable horses at the time were going to be happiest living out their days as companions only, which is something that can be an adoption hurdle,” she says. With the stipend, Hungerford was able to target groups looking for horses similar to the ones at the facility.

“While these promotions increased inquiries for all of our adoptable equines, there was one horse in particular that found her match through the campaign,” Hungerford says.

Ella had come to the Susquehanna SPCA through a suspected animal cruelty case.

“She was extremely emaciated upon arrival and had a foal at her side that she was caring for,” Hungerford recalls. “After the case was closed, Ella became ours. Ella’s foal was quickly adopted, and she was healthy and searching for a pasture where she could spend her days relaxing while munching on grass, maybe participating in some light riding now and then.”

Hungerford says that sadly, Ella kept getting overlooked and had been waiting for her person to come along for quite some time.

“With the help of paid and targeted advertising, I was able to reach folks who lived in areas we weren’t necessarily accessing with our regular organic outreach,” she says. “This did the trick for sweet Ella, and she found her match!”

Facilitating Adoption

When the Adopt a Horse Month initiative officially started, everyone involved dreamed about how it would evolve and what it would one day become.

“Adopt a Horse Month plays a critical role in raising awareness and excitement around equine adoption,” says Cailin Caldwell, director of the ASPCA Right Horse Program. “In 2024, thousands of horse lovers explored equine adoption for the first time by visiting myrighthorse.org and met adoptable horses online.”

Caldwell says that as a result, more than 200 horses, donkeys, and mules found homes during the month through ASPCA Right Horse Partners.

“We’re hoping to make this year’s Adopt a Horse Month even more impactful and encourage everyone to get involved,” she says. “If you know someone looking for a horse, encourage them to consider adoption by visiting myrighthorse.org or their local adoption group. Or share on your social media channels to raise awareness and interest in these amazing horses. Whether you’re looking to adopt or not, there are countless ways to get involved and support these amazing equines.”

Be part of something big during Adopt a Horse Month 2025. Join The Rescue Effort to see how one adoption creates space for more horses to be helped. Learn more at aspca.org.

This article about Adopt a Horse Month appeared in the May 2025 issue of Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

The post Adopt a Horse Month 2025: Finding Forever appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

What Makes a Horse a Candidate for a Grazing Muzzle?

According to Krishona Martinson, Ph.D., Equine Extension Specialist for University of Minnesota Extension, horses that are clinically healthy yet overweight are the best candidates for a grazing muzzle, as opposed to those with a history of laminitis or a diagnosis such as equine metabolic syndrome or Cushing’s disease.

“[The best candidates are horses that] can graze without the negative health complications, but we don’t want them to gain excessive amounts of weight, or we would like them to lose some weight,” she says.

In these situations, using a grazing muzzle can help horse owners manage their easy keepers with their herd, while still allowing them to exercise and continue to be herd animals.

Rhonda Hoffman, Ph.D., Professor and Director of Horse Science at Middle Tennessee State University, further elaborates that horses with a body condition score of 7, 8, or 9 (on the 1-9 Henneke Body Condition Scoring system) as those that would benefit most from the use of a grazing muzzle to lose weight and decrease the risk of developing insulin dysregulation.

While other types of horses can benefit from a grazing muzzle, such as those who have been diagnosed with equine metabolic syndrome or those who have had laminitis, both experts agree this is not always an ideal management practice.

“These horses require a diet low in nonstructural carbohydrates,” says Martinson. “Our predominately cool-season grasses in most parts of the U.S. are not a great forage source for these horses. A grazing muzzle will slow their consumption and reduce how much they can take in, but it does not remove the nonstructural carbohydrates. I think that is an important distinction.”

Hoffman advises that even if they haven’t been formally diagnosed, horses with a cresty neck could have insulin dysregulation or metabolic issues, as can horses who have previously foundered, even if their current body condition score is good. She recommends that you consult with your veterinarian to determine if limited grazing using a muzzle is OK, or if these horses should be completely restricted from pasture.

When to Use a Grazing Muzzle

As useful a tool as grazing muzzles are to help your horse maintain a healthy weight or lose weight, he does not need to wear a grazing muzzle year-round.

“It depends on location and rainfall,” says Hoffman. She explains that grass has little nutritional value during times of drought and in freezing temperatures. Wearing a grazing muzzle during these times is not going to make a discernible difference, she says.

Similarly, Martinson advises their use during the growing season.

“Depending upon your location in the U.S., your growing season is going to be different,” she says. She elaborates that for approximately two-thirds of the U.S., the growing season is from mid-May to mid-October. It is during these months that she advises their use for horses that are clinically healthy but need to maintain or lose weight.

Introductory Period

“When we have done research using grazing muzzles, or anything that restricts or slows down foraging [even a hay net], it takes horses time to acclimate and learn how to use the barrier put in front of them,” says Martinson. “My recommendation while they are out on pasture is to put the grazing muzzle on and watch them carefully.”

To make sure that your horse is consuming enough calories, especially during the first two to three days of use, Martinson advises placing the horse in a stall or dry lot overnight and feeding a small amount of hay to keep his digestive system moving. Also check that the grazing muzzle fits into your horse’s water source.

“But in my experience, and in our research, every single horse that we fitted with a grazing muzzle has figured out how to graze with it on fairly quickly,” she says.

The Proper Fit of a Grazing Muzzle

Ensuring a proper fit for your horse’s grazing muzzle can be a very individualized experience, and it plays a critical role in the grazing muzzle’s use. But with a variety of styles to choose from and a little ingenuity, it is possible to maintain your horse’s comfort.

All styles of grazing muzzles form a basket designed to fit over the horse’s muzzle, and the materials from which they are constructed range from a poly/nylon mix to both firm and flexible plastic.

The method of attachment differs depending upon the style of muzzle you choose, with options that include a continuous, single-piece style; a four-point leather attachment; and Velcro or plastic ties that can be attached to a standard or custom halter.

Within these styles, you are likely to find one that your horse is both likely to keep on and that will also stand up to his particular methods of wear and tear, while minimizing or even eliminating rubbing.

But even if the grazing muzzle you choose checks most of your boxes, there may still be areas of friction. Experimenting with different materials such as fleece, duct tape, Vetrap, slinky-material fly masks worn underneath the halter, and more can help minimize rubbing at pressure points.

No matter which style you choose, both experts agree that safety should be at the core of choosing and fitting a grazing muzzle. Any product, whether it is the method used to affix the muzzle to the halter or the halter itself, should be designed to break away if the horse becomes entangled.

Beyond that, choosing a muzzle that is not so loose-fitting that it encourages excessive rubbing can help cut down on any potential issues your horse may experience.

No matter how daunting your choice of grazing muzzles may seem, the good news, according to Martinson, is that any grazing muzzle you choose will reduce forage intake by approximately 30 percent, with some of the more restrictive designs reducing intake still more.

Almost any grazing muzzle is a good choice if it meets the above criteria for safety and fit.

Regular Inspections

Once you have made your selection, both Hoffman and Martinson recommend continuous evaluation of your grazing muzzle.

“Every single time your horse goes out or comes in, pay attention to [not only fit] but also wear on the grazing muzzle itself,” says Hoffman.

She advises paying particular attention to whether the grazing muzzle was damaged during turnout and for areas of excessive wear that may be developing over time.

Tip: As a longtime user of grazing muzzles, one pro tip that I highly recommend is tying one or two pieces of colorful surveyor’s tape to your grazing muzzle. Doing so can save countless hours looking for your grazing muzzle if it comes off in the pasture. 

A Daily Break

The method in which you use a grazing muzzle is another important aspect. According to Martinson, research out of North Carolina done by Paul Siciliano, Ph.D., shows that when horses are restricted from pasture—for example, if they are only turned out for two hours or if a grazing muzzle is applied for two hours and then removed—horses will learn that schedule.

So in those two hours they are allowed to graze, horses will consume calories significantly faster than normal grazing speed. Siciliano’s research indicates that in as little as three hours of grazing, horses can consume up to two-thirds of their calories for the day.

This research has led to various recommendations about how grazing muzzles should be used. In a perfect world, each day your horse would be allowed an extended break from wearing the grazing muzzle. For example, to further encourage maintenance of weight or weight loss, the horse could be brought into the barn or placed on a dry lot at night, during which time he would be fed lower-quality (more mature/lower calorie) hay.

“Any time you leave a horse out 24/7, even with a halter on, it is going to create rubs,” says Hoffman. “With a grazing muzzle, they are pushing their nose against the bottom to force grass through the holes. A break helps to avoid skin conditions and rubs.”

Allowing for a daily break from wearing a grazing muzzle can also help to preserve the muzzle’s longevity. During the hot summer months, Hoffman says removing the muzzles for a period keeps the horse cooler.

But allowing for a break while at the same time keeping the horse off pasture is not always possible. In those cases, it’s best to increase your monitoring of the horse to ensure continued proper fit and watch for rubs and wear patterns.

Weight Loss Outcomes

Just one benefit of using grazing muzzles is that they can allow for a slow, safe weight reduction.

“If you reduce calories by about a third, your horse should be able to lose one body condition score [number] per month,” says Martinson. “This is considered a safe amount.”

She further explains that the body condition score amount is going to vary depending on whether you have a draft horse, a light horse, a pony, or a Miniature Horse.

“It could be as little as 10 pounds or as much as 50 pounds, depending on the size of the horse,” says Martinson.

She cautions that adding feed and treats to your horse’s diet can be counterproductive to achieving your loss goals, while exercise, when possible, can enhance your efforts.

Grass Height and Type

You may have read conflicting reports about appropriate pasture grass height and types, perhaps finding that your pasture situation is not ideal for a horse wearing a grazing muzzle. However, Martinson’s research has led to some interesting discoveries.

“We would like to see our cool-season grass pastures between 3 and 8 inches in height,” she says. “Never lower than 3 inches.”

Regardless of whether your horse wears a grazing muzzle, this practice prevents overgrazing. Further, she says, horses prefer different types of grasses. Some of these different grasses grow straight up, while others grow along the ground.

It used to be thought that a grass that grows straight up would be more accessible by horses wearing a grazing muzzle. Instead, she says, research found that how the grass grows made no difference to the horses, and their ability to successfully graze through the muzzle remained unchanged, regardless of grass type.

Stress Levels

Martinson says that a common misconception about grazing muzzles is that they cause an increase in the stress levels of the horses wearing them. However, she says that in recent years, research conducted by Amy Burk, Ph.D., at the University of Maryland measured levels of the stress hormone cortisol, comparing levels in horses wearing a grazing muzzle and those without.

Not only were the stress levels similar, but the herd hierarchy remained unchanged. The only change noted was a reduction in bite marks and a reduced ability for horses to groom themselves or others.

Key Takeaway

While there is a lot of information to take in, with these researched-based recommendations in mind, you too can make the best choices for your horse in all aspects of grazing muzzle use.

This article about grazing muzzles appeared in the April 2024 issue of Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

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Humble Beginnings of The Adoptable Horse Program

The program, first launched as a pilot at the start of the fall semester during the 2017-2018 school year, was the result of a $508,000 grant funded by the Watershed Animal Fund, a division of the Arnall Family Foundation.

Foundation representatives, then overseers of The Right Horse Initiative before it moved to the purview of the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), were just getting started with the Initiative when they approached Adam Daurio, director of the Temple Grandin Equine Center.

“They said ‘We love everything that the Temple Grandin Equine Center is doing,’” says Daurio. “They asked if I thought there was a partnership.”

He recognized the opportunity at hand.

“I said we’d love to help rehab some of the horses and then integrate them into Equine Assisted Services.”

With the grant secured, funding allowed for facility upgrades and the establishment of a Regional Training Facility for The Right Horse Initiative that initially served just eight horses. Although the number of horses served during the program’s pilot year was relatively small, the impact was nothing of the sort, as it proved without a doubt that the program’s big goals were right on track.

As a direct result of the grant, students enrolled in the university’s equine science program now receive training in the evaluation, handling, care, and training of horses in transition. While this was beneficial, what truly sets the program apart is its commitment, where possible, to placing available adoptable horses into the equine assisted services (EAS) and Certified Horsemanship Association (CHA) homes, thereby filling a previously unmet need for these organizations.

The strength of the pilot program has allowed it to expand.

“We had success both of these semesters,” says Daurio. “Then we launched it full time, and it was incorporated into our equine sciences curriculum.”

The program has grown to now serve 15 horses per semester or 30 per year. At first, horses enrolled in the program came from nearby Dumb Friends League Harmony Equine Center in Franktown, Colo. Today, they come from several local ASPCA industry partner rescues.

Heartbeat of the Program

It’s the horses who are the heartbeat of the program, Daurio explains.

“What has made this program unique is that we are providing experiences [for the students] training these horses,” he says. While master instructors teach the courses, it’s the horses who are partnered with the students that play a tremendous role as the students learn about their evaluation, care, and rehabilitation.

Daurio explains that in a traditional class, one instructor works with a small group of students who go into the pens and get the horse assigned to them. Typically, the instructor will use one of the horses as a demonstration horse. Afterward, the students work with their horses on the techniques demonstrated by the instructor.

From the beginning, the main goal of the training was to create horses suitable for placement in EAS. But as other needs became evident, the horses were also trained to become suitable riding lesson partners for the CHA.

As can be expected, not every horse who goes through the program is suitable as a therapy or lesson horse. Horses who, for whatever reason, did not meet the criteria for either program are still trained to become solid citizens for the right adoptable home.

Program Selection

Horses for the program are selected by Cayla Stone, instructor for the program, along with several students. Stone and her students visit rescue facilities and evaluate 30 to 40 horses in a day, selecting only the top 15 for inclusion in the program.

“My whole goal for the program is getting the students experience with a variety of horses,” says Stone.

This variety of horses includes young and old horses; untrained or started; non-riding and riding horses. Regardless of whether the horse will be ridden, Stone guides students in selecting horses that can withstand—even if some maintenance is required—the workload of a semester.

She attributes part of her success with the horses, students, and program to the involvement of local trainers, clinicians, saddle fitters, massage therapists, veterinarians, farriers, and more who contribute to expanding the knowledge base of her students each semester.

“The business model mandates that each horse come for a minimum of a semester,” says Daurio. “If the horse has succeeded, we then assist the rescue partner, who owns the horse, in offering it for adoption.”

However, if everyone involved agrees that the horse would benefit from more time in the program, a request is made that the owning facility or rescue allow the horse to stay at CSU for a second semester.

Daurio further explains that the program is not just a riding program where the students simply sign up and ride these horses.

“It is a very science-based program,” he says. “The first thing we do with all the horses is a very thorough evaluation. They are weighed, photographed, and veterinarians come in and perform certain health examinations.”

This is done so that the animals coming into the program are appropriately handled, both mentally and physically. Students are taught to accept each horse as an individual, and an early expectation is that the horse they’re assigned may not be rideable, but will instead be trained to be a companion animal.

“We want the students to be scientists and to have animal welfare at the heart of everything they do,” says Daurio.

CSU students help the rescues to market the horses once they graduate from the program. Often this is accomplished via social media blasts using photos and videos of the horses created by the students.

Adoption Success Stories

Daurio is particularly proud that the Temple Grandin Equine Center has adopted five of the horses who graduated from the program to take part in the EAS that the facility offers. Stone has several success stories of her own to share. Some of her students, for example, have adopted their program horses, while two Thoroughbreds took part in the 2024 Retired Racehorse Project Thoroughbred Makeover.

Going forward, the program hopes to capitalize on the growth it has experienced each year and continue to increase the number of horses served by getting them into adoptable homes where they enjoy lives where they are the best version of themselves.

If you are interested in donating to this worthwhile program, visit here.

This article about Colorado State University’s adoptable horse program appeared in the January/February 2024 issue of Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

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After serious health issues forced my mare, Sally, into an early retirement, I began a serious search for a new equine riding partner. As a dedicated Arabian enthusiast, I’d never considered buying a warmblood, but through the days, weeks, and months of searching that ensued, an ad with a photograph stuck with me. The young gelding appeared to be everything I was looking for. The only difference was that he was wrapped in a slightly different package.

With an irresistible face, an athletic build, and a description that included such phrases as “does well in show chaos and remains professional,” “three amazing gaits and remains balanced for a young, growing, horse,” and “funny and personable, loves human attention,” I decided to forego my reservations over the fact that he wasn’t an Arabian and schedule a visit.

After a two-hour trial ride that included trekking across his owner’s property and popping over some fences in her jump field, I was smitten. The deal was made and my first American Warmblood, Bucky, came home with me.

Today, while I still love Arabians, I wonder what took me so long to find this incredible breed. Bucky, who has a Spotted Draft sire and a Quarter Horse dam, is indeed a wonderful representative of the American Warmblood breed. He loves attention, and together we enjoy such activities as jumping, dressage, and trail riding.

Like my horse, the American Warmblood is well-suited for many disciplines, including hunters, jumpers, dressage, eventing, combined driving, western dressage, and working equitation. The versatility that can be found within the breed means that representatives can be found competing at the top levels of many different sports.

A type of horse rather than a specific breed, American Warmbloods are uniquely customized sport horses that are the products of American breeding programs. Multiple acceptable breed crosses can result in a registrable American Warmblood.

A common example is breeding an imported European warmblood stallion (such as Dutch Warmblood, Oldenburg, Hanoverian, et cetera) to an American Thoroughbred mare, but Morgan, American Paint Horse, Appaloosa, Friesian, Tennessee Walking Horse, and draft crosses are examples of other acceptable pairings that reflect breeding flexibility and diversity that might not otherwise be found within the confines of a traditional warmblood registry.

Breed Characteristics of the American Warmblood

Regardless of breeding, one of the most important characteristics of the American Warmblood is having a good temperament that is accommodating and accepting of their often amateur owners’ schedules and abilities.

They can be of any coat color, and their average height ranges from 15 to 17 hands. Correct conformation that can withstand the rigors of sport competition is strongly desired.

By the Numbers

According to Nancy Roth, director of the American Warmblood Society and Sporthorse Registry (AWSSR), approximately 3,000 horses are registered with their organization.

While the number of registered American Warmbloods may seem low when compared to other breed registries, there are estimated to be many more qualifying horses that are unregistered, indicating a healthy interest in the breed.

Registration Eligibility

Roth says that horses are eligible for registration with the AWSSR even if they don’t have a documented pedigree. Applicants will first be issued “performance pending” registration papers that will allow the horse to take part in all registry activities. However, to receive full, official registration papers, horses must complete a performance requirement, she says.

“The performance requirement can be met through placing or earning a minimum score at nationally recognized shows in hunter, jumper, dressage, eventing, hunter breeding, dressage sport horse breeding (DSHB), young horse show series, combined driving, western dressage, and working equitation,” says Roth.

Because western dressage is a new discipline for the registry, scores from schooling shows are also allowed to encourage interest.

Inspections are typically associated with warmblood registries, but with the AWSSR, Roth says that inspection is optional and can be completed at any age. Completing the registration process comes with benefits that include documenting the horse’s existence and enjoying a supportive community of likeminded individuals.

Is the American Warmblood Right for You?

If you are looking for a versatile breed prized by amateurs and professionals alike, the American Warmblood is one to watch. This breed stands out as a versatile, athletic, and personable breed that has earned its place in the hearts of sport horse enthusiasts. Whether you’re drawn to their diverse background, their impressive abilities in multiple disciplines, or their friendly, easygoing temperaments, American Warmbloods are well-suited for both amateur and professional riders.

This article about the American Warmblood appeared in the October 2023 issue of Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

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When you think of the term “companion horse,” one that is versatile with the ability to fill a variety of needs isn’t what usually comes to mind. However, according to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, many of these horses are just that.

“Essentially, it is a horse that is best suited for a career, home, or adopter who wants to enjoy their equine from the ground,” says Cailin Caldwell, director of the ASPCA Right Horse program.

While that may be a familiar definition to some, these horses are so much more. Some horses who fall into this category can still be shown in-hand in halter and showmanship classes, compete in agility, thrive in liberty work, practice in-hand trail course obstacles, and more. Others fill a need to be good companions to their pasture or barn mates and owners alike.

What Makes a Companion Horse?

The reasons that horses become unsuitable for under-saddle work are plentiful.

Lack of training, unexplained behaviors that compromise safety, physical limitations that makes riding painful for the horse or unsafe for the rider, age limitations, basic characteristics like size or type, and horses that have a distinct preference for ground or driven work are chief among them.

True Versatility

Just because a horse can’t be ridden doesn’t exclude him from participating in breed organization events and activities.

For example, the Pinto Horse Association of America, Inc., an ASPCA Right Horse Industry Partner, created the On the Trail: Recreational Pinto Program where owners can get rewarded for spending time with their horse, even if that time is on the ground doing such activities as driving, working in-hand, or even just spending time bonding with their horse.

But if this too sounds limiting, consider that these horses can also fill a niche as unmounted therapy horses.

“Sometimes these horses are a great fit for that,” says Caldwell.

While many people dream of riding, there is a growing contingent of equestrians whose dreams don’t involve riding.

“Maybe they originally got into horses because they wanted to ride,” says Caldwell. “But at the end of the day, their favorite part of being at the barn is that time spent grooming and caring for their horse, listening to him munch hay, and brushing or bathing him.”

A Common Misconception

A familiar misconception about companion horses is that they may require specialized care. In reality, even if it is a physical ailment that makes a horse unable to be ridden, not all companion horses require extra medications, treatments, or shoeing.

Caldwell assures potential adopters that if a particular horse does require more than the usual, the organization has an open book policy with full disclosure as to what those needs may be.

“If someone is looking to adopt one of these horses, the horse will come with a thorough vetting, support from the adoption organization, information about what the horse needs, and what caring for that horse is going to look like,” she says.

Adopting Companion Horses Fills a Need

Caldwell says that about 40 percent of the horses available through the ASPCA’s Right Horse Adoption Partners can be categorized as companion horses.

“It varies between groups,” she says. “Some of our groups specialize in this population of horses, while others get them much less frequently.”

It can be easy to jump to the conclusion that companion horses are more difficult to adopt out. However, the biggest obstacle is finding ways to connect these horses to the people who want to enjoy horses from the ground.

Caldwell cites the ASPCA’s Equine Transition and Adoption Center as a good example of ways that the organization is working to match these types of horses with just the right owners.

When to Adopt a Companion Horse

If companion horses have piqued your interest, adopting one may be the right decision for you. Caldwell advises that when considering adopting a companion horse, one of the biggest considerations is what your goals are for the partnership.

“If you have one horse on your property that needs a companion or if you love spending time in the company of horses, or maybe you want to introduce your grandkids to horses, a companion horse can be a wonderful way to do that,” she says. Many companion horses are fantastic-natured, very easy to handle on the ground, and have a lot of love to give.

“If you want to bond and have that deep, special connection with a horse, a companion horse can be a great option,” Caldwell adds.

There are still other reasons to adopt a companion horse.

“For those who want to make a difference, give back, and be there to support horses, a companion horse can be a way to make that difference,” she says.

Finally, if you were once a rider who no longer feels safe astride, or your goals have simply changed, companion horses can be a great way to continue your involvement with horses.

An Adoption Success Story Adopted companion horses Shorty and Hero received specialized training at the ASPCA Equine Transition and Adoption Center (ETAC) and are two of many adoption success stories. Shorty, a previously unhandled and unsocialized horse, came into the ASPCA’s care after his owner passed away. Hero was transferred to ETAC from one of the ASPCA’s partner shelters for additional behavioral support. In July 2022, both horses were adopted by a residential boys’ ranch. At first skeptical, both horses have grown to look forward to being with the boys at the ranch. This may be in part because both have been through traumatic experiences, allowing them to more easily relate to one another and to form special bonds. Working with the horses has been beneficial to both the horses and the boys as each gains confidence while also learning new skills. Shorty and Hero demonstrate daily that unmounted therapy horses are one of many viable options for adoptable companion horses.

Next Steps for Adopting a Companion Horse

If adopting a companion horse seems like a good fit for you, the ASPCA maintains a website, MyRightHorse.org, where hundreds of adoptable horses—including companion horses—can easily be found from equine adoption facilities around the country.

This article about companion horse adoption appeared in the October 2023 issue of Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

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