Dorsal spinous processes (DSPs) are the bony projections at the top of the horse’s vertebrae. When those projections touch (impinge) or overlap (override), this is referred to as “kissing spines.”  The area of the back where the condition is most often diagnosed is between thoracic vertebrae T13 and 18—directly under where a rider sits in the saddle.

A horse with four sites of impingement with bone remodeling, suspected to be causing the horse’s pain under saddle. Photo by Alan Nixon

Signs a Horse May Have Kissing Spines Include:

◆ Obvious discomfort with pressure on back

◆ Loss of muscling across topline

◆ Change in behavior (tail swishing is common)

◆ “Hollowed out” back when ridden

◆ Resistance to transitions between gaits

◆ Asymmetric, uneven gaits

◆ Difficulty picking up correct lead or maintaining canter

Obvious discomfort from pressure on the back is one possible indicator of kissing spines. Photo by Talitha/Adobe Stock

A Diagnosis is Not Always Career-Ending

Although radiographs may look alarming, the presence of kissing spines isn’t necessarily the kiss of death for a horse’s athletic career. In fact, many horses whose X-rays reveal the condition have no clinical signs and compete at top levels.

Researchers at the University of California-Davis recently studied groups of horses that compete successfully in high-level show jumping and racing over fences. X-rays of these horses’ backs showed that kissing spines was very common, yet there was no correlation with poor performance. In fact, horses with the worse radiographic evidence of kissing spines often had better jumping scores and racing accomplishments.

“It’s incredibly common to have horses show abnormalities of their backs on X-rays, but our clinical experience and research studies show that kissing spines doesn’t necessarily mean a horse has back pain or poor performance,” says Sarah le Jeune, DVM, DACVS, DACVSMR, CVA, of UC Davis, who regularly works with horses with the condition. Le Jeune specializes in equine integrative sports medicine and rehabilitation, and she is also a surgeon.

“Kissing spines is getting blamed clinically for a lot of things, so you have to rule out other problems,” says le Jeune. “I rarely see horses with primary back pain; it’s usually secondary to lameness, poor saddle fit, or unbalanced riding.” Her goal is getting to the root of the problem and fixing it.

“Back pain and lameness are highly correlated and hard to separate,” she notes. “If there’s an underlying lameness, once the horse is better, he starts using his back better.”

Not Just X-Rays

Radiographs alone should never be the sole evidence for a diagnosis of kissing spines. It’s believed that almost 35 percent of horses show evidence of the condition on X-rays, but they may have no clinical signs.

“Typically, when you X-ray horses’ backs, they’re sedated, and their posture is passive,” says le Jeune. “They’re not engaging their abdominal muscles and are kind of slouching.”

This doesn’t reflect the horse in movement with an engaged hind end and lifted back.

“It’s not uncommon to see kissing spines on X-rays, but the sedated, standing horse is not the same as the dynamic horse in motion,” she adds.

The condition has even been seen on X-rays of foals’ backs, which proves it’s not related to being ridden.

When conducting a pre-purchase exam, le Jeune won’t necessarily “red flag” a horse with kissing spines on the X-rays if he moves well and has no back pain, but she lets the buyer know it could become a problem if the rider is not able to ride the horse with an engaged and lifted back.

Because the condition is so frequently seen on X-rays, an accurate diagnosis of kissing spines must include clinical correlation.

“Horses with clinical kissing spines have obvious pain upon palpation and riding,” says le Jeune. “The diagnosis has to be confirmed with physical examination and palpation of the back, including a thorough lameness evaluation, neurological evaluation, and saddle fit evaluation.”

She also recommends evaluation of the horse being ridden by a veterinarian well-versed in sports medicine.

Why Horses Develop Kissing Spines

There is no single answer as to why some horses develop kissing spines. Likely, the condition is the result of multiple factors, including breed predisposition and genetics, poor saddle fit, unbalanced riding, and lack of training that allows the horse to not engage his core.

At times, conformation is to blame. A horse that genuinely has bad posture related to conformation may be physically incapable of using his body properly for high-level performance.

“Saddle fit is a huge problem,” adds le Jeune. “The saddle has to fit the rider, not just the horse. Most owners want to do what’s right by their horses. It might mean getting a different saddle or becoming a more balanced rider. It takes self-awareness and willingness to address the root problem.”

Different Approaches to Kissing Spines

When all other issues have been ruled out and a horse has a definitive diagnosis of kissing spines, there are different approaches to addressing the condition:

◆ Medical treatment

◆ Postural rehabilitation

◆ Surgery

Medical treatment may involve muscle relaxants, anti-inflammatory medication, and steroid injections between the offending DSPs. Some horses with the condition may benefit from steroid injections a couple times per year to reduce inflammation in the affected area(s) of the back.

Le Jeune has also seen improvement using shockwave therapy, chiropractic adjustment and acupuncture. Although these therapies can be very helpful, the horse must still have a strong back and move correctly, which is why postural rehabilitation is key.

Secondary to postural rehab, Le Jeune has also seen improvement using shockwave therapy, chiropractic adjustment and acupuncture. Photo by RD-Fotografie/Adobe Stock

Postural rehabilitation involves exercises that engage core muscles and strengthen the muscles that support the spinal column. The goal of postural rehabilitation is getting the horse to use his back properly, by tucking his pelvis and lifting the back.

“Postural rehab can include resistance bands like the Equiband Pro System, the ProSix, or the Pessoa Lungeing System,” says le Jeune. “All of this is done without a rider and rehab can take two to three months.”

Postural rehabilitation, which might include the Pessoa longeing system, involves exercise that engages core muscles and strengthens the muscles that support the spinal column. Photo by matilda553/Adobe Stock

When owners choose surgery for severe cases, there are two options. The most common surgery, known as interspinous ligament desmotomy (ISLD), involves snipping the ligament(s) holding those segments of the spine together.

“A branch of the spinal nerves in that region are cut during the surgery, so it’s like a neurectomy, meaning the horse won’t be able to feel that area of the back,” explains le Jeune, adding that this may possibly make the back less stable.

A more radical and invasive surgery, known as ostectomy, actually cuts away the top of the dorsal spinous processes that are touching.

Post-operative image of the same horse following cranial wedge ostectomy of the four sites. Photo by Alan Nixon

Some surgeons are combining ISLD surgery with a process known as “bone shaving,” which removes smaller bone sections and is less radical than an ostectomy.

While surgery for kissing spines is common, le Jeune believes it’s only warranted when the diagnosis is absolute and there are no better treatment options. In practice, she has found that postural rehabilitation is often a more successful approach.

When an owner chooses this option, it’s important to work with an expert who is experienced in rehabilitation, which is usually a veterinarian who is board certified in sports medicine, so don’t hesitate to seek out a specialist.

Return to Work

Most horses with clinical signs are able to return to work after treatment, but owners should be aware that rehab takes time and commitment on their part.

“As long as you’ve ruled out everything else, it’s very rare that postural rehab doesn’t work,” says le Jeune. “But correct riding is crucial. You need to have a skilled rider once the back is strengthened in order to keep the horse engaged and using his back properly.”

Correct riding is crucial when returning to work. A strong equine back and skilled rider is needed to keep the horse engaged and using his back properly. Photo by RD-Fotografie/Adobe Stock

As an avid rider herself, le Jeune understands the condition from this perspective.

“Once the horse develops more back muscling, he’ll get wider, so you may need to adjust or change saddles,” she adds, noting that regular saddle re-evaluation is essential, with adjustment as needed.

Key Takeaway

Although kissing spines has become a common diagnosis in performance horses, le Jeune emphasizes that the condition shouldn’t be the go-to explanation for poor performance or back pain.

She encourages owners and veterinarians to definitively rule out any other problems, particularly lameness, before confirming a diagnosis of kissing spines and pursuing treatment.

She adds that choice of treatment should always focus on what’s right for the horse long term—not necessarily the option that brings about the fastest results.

This article about kissing spines in horses appeared in the January/February 2025 issue of Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

The post An Overview of Kissing Spines in Horses appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Photo courtesy Colorado Horse Rescue

Adoptable Horse: Callie, a 23-year-old, 16.3hh American Quarter Horse mare
Organization: Colorado Horse Rescue, Longmont, Colo.

Get to Know Adoptable Horse Callie

Callie is looking for a quiet environment where she can feel at home. She does the best with other easy going, gentle horses — much like herself. She is blind in one of her eyes, so a consistent environment will serve her well. Callie loves being groomed and spending time with people. She is a lovely horse to spend time with, and will make a great buddy to both horses and people.

Contact Colorado Horse Rescue today about ASPCA Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week, Callie!

Photo courtesy Colorado Horse Rescue

ASPCA Right Horse

ASPCA Right Horse is the online adoption platform of The Right Horse Initiative, a collection of equine industry and welfare professionals and advocates working together to improve the lives of horses in transition. A program of the ASPCA, their goal is to massively increase horse adoption in the United States. To find more adoptable horses and foster horses, visit www.myrighthorse.org. To learn more about The Right Horse, a program of the ASPCA, visit www.aspcarighthorse.org.

The post ASPCA Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week: Callie appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Photo courtesy Easy R Equine Rescue

Adoptable Horse: Moonshine, a 14-year-old, 14.2hh American Paint Horse mare
Organization: Easy R Equine Rescue, Lubbock, Texas

Get to Know Adoptable Horse Moonshine

Moonshine came to Easy R in May 2025 as an owner surrender. The owner was having a very intensive back operation and could no longer care for the horses. According to him, Moonshine came to his house when the neighbor who owned her took a job that required extensive worldwide travel. Other than what they have been told, Equine R has very little information about her previous life and training.

Moonshine is a bit standoffish and leery of people. She is not mean or aggressive; she just acts as if she has had limited exposure to ground training and realizing what people are expecting from her. At this point, Easy R is working with her on standing nicely for the farrier, being caught and haltered more easily, and cooperating with any type of veterinary treatment.

She has what looks to be some arthritis in one of her back legs, which does cause her to be “off” at a trot and lope. After discussion with the veterinarian about potential soundness under saddle, it has been decided that it would be best for Moonshine if she was adopted as a non-rideable, companion only horse. The veterinarian expressed concerns that if she is lame without a rider, that it would cause too much stress on her injured leg to train her under saddle.

Moonshine gets along well with other horses—in fact, she is incredibly bonded to a mare at her current foster home. She is a very cute little Paint Horse and would be an adorable pasture pet in a home with at least one other horse.

Contact Easy R Equine Rescue today about ASPCA Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week, Moonshine!

Photo courtesy Easy R Equine Rescue

ASPCA Right Horse

ASPCA Right Horse is the online adoption platform of The Right Horse Initiative, a collection of equine industry and welfare professionals and advocates working together to improve the lives of horses in transition. A program of the ASPCA, their goal is to massively increase horse adoption in the United States. To find more adoptable horses and foster horses, visit www.myrighthorse.org. To learn more about The Right Horse, a program of the ASPCA, visit www.aspcarighthorse.org.

The post ASPCA Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week: Moonshine appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

By the end of 2026, U.S. sales on pet CBD products are expected to hit $1.1 billion. While more than three-quarters of the CBD-related pet products purchased in 2021 were bought for dogs, horses are getting in on the action, too. Horse owners are using CBD products to address:

◆ Inflammation
◆ Arthritis
◆ Respiratory issues
◆ Allergies
◆ Pain (acute and chronic)
◆ Immune system issues
◆ Anxiety
◆ Stress/trauma
◆ Gastrointestinal problems (ulcers, leaky gut, et cetera)

Photo by Viktoria Makarova/Adobe Stock

Why CBD Works in Equines

All mammals have an endocannabinoid system (ECS) located throughout the body, which helps the nervous and immune systems self-regulate and communicate. The ECS searches out instability and seeks to return the body to a balanced state.

CBD acts on cannabinoid receptors in the brain, organs, and the immune system, allowing the ECS to be more productive in coping with instabilities such as inflammation, pain, anxiety, immune deficiencies, digestive disturbances, and more.

CBD is one of the most common cannabinoids found in cannabis plants, which include both hemp and marijuana. Hemp has 0.3 percent or less THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), which is the cannabinoid in marijuana that causes the sensations of being “high.”

There are different ways to extract CBD from plants, with CO₂ extraction being the purest. Chemical extraction methods may use toxic chemicals, making this method undesirable. Reputable manufacturers will note their extraction method.

Forms and Dosage

CBD products for horses are sold as pellets, powders, and oils. To avoid contamination from chemicals, heavy metals, or other soil toxins, choose products made in the U.S. or Canada from organically grown hemp. Check websites for a Certificate of Analysis (COA) showing the product has been third-party tested and is free of THC, heavy metals, mold, et cetera.

CBD products for horses are most commonly sold in one of three forms: pellets, powder, or oil. Photo by Irina Evva/Adobe Stock

If the product has a NASC quality seal, this guarantees the product was made by a member of the National Animal Supplement Council, so you can feel confident it contains what the label states.

Dosage depends on the horse’s weight and the specific condition being addressed. The most common doses in pharmacokinetic studies for a 1,000-pound horse would be 225 to 1,350 mg of CBD oil once or twice daily. Thus far, only one study has shown increased liver values with these doses. More research on long-term use is needed.

The dose can be adjusted up or down depending on how the horse responds. Although positive effects may be seen within days, it may take up to two weeks to see obvious benefits.

Any side effects are typically mild. Current research has not identified effects on mental activity or GI effects in the short term, but long-term safety is unknown.

Consider the Research

In a recent study at the University of Messina in Italy, hemp oil was added to the protocol of horses with joint osteoarthritis who were already being treated with phenylbutazone (bute).

The group of horses receiving CBD oil had “a significant reduction in heart rate, respiratory rate, white blood cell count, and oxidative stress.” Those horses also scored lower in the Horse Chronic Pain Scale (HCPS), showing improved pain relief and quality of life.

“The good news is that the outcome of pharmacokinetic research has been quite consistent despite different CBD products, doses, horse populations studied, and research groups,” says Taralyn McCarrel, DVM, who was an Assistant Professor at the University of Florida when the school conducted CBD research on horses in 2021. She is currently an Associate Professor of Large Animal Surgery at the Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph. “In research, one study never stands alone as the answer—we like to see broad consistency across studies to confirm results.”

McCarrel says current published literature supports these general conclusions:

◆ Oral CBD has poor absorption from the GI tract (very little of what we give ends up in bloodstream circulation).

◆ The acid forms of cannabinoids (CBDA) are better absorbed, but potential clinical effects of these need more investigation.

◆ THC can be detected despite being in low concentrations in hemp oils, and the 7-COOH CBD metabolite remains detectable in the circulation for longer than other metabolites tested.

She points out that despite hemp oil having less than 0.3 percent THC as required by law to qualify as a hemp oil, horses in the University of Florida study, whether given lower or higher doses, had detectable levels of THCA (the acidic form of THC).

“While the CBD and many other metabolites were eliminated from the bloodstream quickly and became undetectable, the 7-COOH-CBD metabolite remained at high levels throughout our sampling window,” says McCarrel, who still holds Courtesy Faculty status at the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine.

Should Your Horse Try CBD?

Many horse owners are using CBD products, and there are plenty of products on the market. That said, McCarrel points out three major areas that should give owners pause.

“The first is that we don’t know much more than we know,” she says. “Based on the current literature, it appears that low doses of CBD have minimal effects in the short term, but the safe and effective dose for any particular indication is not known, and long-term safety of any dose is not known.

“The second major issue is that CBD products can differ based on the species and characteristics of the plant,” McCarrel continues. “There is currently no regulatory control of these products at the federal level, and patchy to nonexistent regulation at the state level. So, it’s a ‘buyer beware’ environment at present.

“Finally, for performance horses, it’s important to know the regulations of whatever organization the horse may compete under and be aware that these products are banned by several of them,” she says. “Cannabinoids are banned by the FEI [Fédération Equestre Internationale]. CBD and THC are also prohibited in Thoroughbred racing in the United States, with THC being in a higher class than CBD for racehorses. Owners and veterinarians need to be mindful of the risk of detection of prohibited substances in horses competing in regulated sports.”

Regulatory Status

McCarrel notes that the regulatory environment for CBD products is currently in a state of limbo.

“Given that we are still in the infancy of CBD research in horses, and the very long and expensive process required to achieve FDA [Food and Drug Administration] approval for pharmaceuticals, I would not expect to see an FDA-approved pharmaceutical labeled for use in horses anytime soon,” says McCarrel.

She explains that on the human side, many CBD producers have asked for regulation as a food supplement, which is less expensive and rigorous, but it would provide some regulatory control over quality.

“The FDA’s position is that they have no path for regulation of CBD as a supplement because CBD is an active ingredient in an approved pharmaceutical for treatment of certain seizure disorders in people, and food supplements cannot contain approved pharmaceutical products,” notes McCarrel. “So other than an approved pharmaceutical, which does not exist in veterinary medicine at present, the CBD market is effectively unregulated.”

Due to this lack of regulation, it falls on horse owners to do their homework and choose CBD products made by reputable companies. Since state laws vary regarding the use of CBD products, check your state’s regulations before purchase.

This article about equine CBD appeared in the January/February 2025 issue of Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

The post Exploring Equine CBD appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Photo courtesy Hooved Animal Humane Society

Adoptable Horse: Byron, a 17-year-old, 15.2hh grade gelding
Organization: Hooved Animal Humane Society, Woodstock, Ill.

Get to Know Adoptable Horse Byron

Byron is a 17-year-old gelding known for his friendly, outgoing, and playful demeanor. He enjoys human interaction, is well-versed in groundwork, and is excelling in join-up and liberty work, which highlights his willingness to connect and communicate with his handlers.

Byron has been diagnosed with kissing spines, which makes him unsuitable for riding. However, he would make an excellent pasture companion, offering companionship to other horses while continuing to engage in groundwork activities that stimulate him both mentally and physically.

Byron is currently available for adoption to a suitable home that understands his needs and can provide him with a comfortable, stress-free environment. If you are looking for a pasture pal with a strong personality and a love for human interaction, Byron may be the perfect fit.

Contact Hooved Animal Humane Society today about ASPCA Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week, Byron!

Photo courtesy Hooved Animal Humane Society

ASPCA Right Horse

ASPCA Right Horse is the online adoption platform of The Right Horse Initiative, a collection of equine industry and welfare professionals and advocates working together to improve the lives of horses in transition. A program of the ASPCA, their goal is to massively increase horse adoption in the United States. To find more adoptable horses and foster horses, visit www.myrighthorse.org. To learn more about The Right Horse, a program of the ASPCA, visit www.aspcarighthorse.org.

The post ASPCA Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week: Byron appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Photo courtesy Susquehanna SPCA

Adoptable Horse: Belle, a 26-year-old, 12.0hh grade pony mare
Organization: Susquehanna SPCA, Cooperstown, N.Y.

Get to Know Adoptable Horse Belle

Belle is a charming senior pony (estimated 25+) who is ready for a fresh start with someone who will enjoy helping her shine. After spending years alone with limited hoof care, she’s now discovering the world with new confidence. She can be shy at first, but a nibble of grain and a calm presence help her relax—and once she feels safe, her sweet, gentle personality shines through.

Despite her age, Belle has the energy and curiosity of a much younger pony. She enjoys stretching her legs, exploring her surroundings, and taking in everything happening around her. Her bright, independent nature makes her especially rewarding to work with.

Belle is still learning that farrier visits are a normal part of life, so she’ll need a patient farrier and a veterinarian who can provide sedation as needed to ensure her trims remain positive and low-stress.

She is looking for an adopter with the experience, steadiness, and understanding needed to help continue her journey. With consistency, kindness, and thoughtful handling, Belle will blossom into a confident and engaging companion.

Contact Susquehanna SPCA today about ASPCA Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week, Belle!

Photo courtesy Susquehanna SPCA

ASPCA Right Horse

ASPCA Right Horse is the online adoption platform of The Right Horse Initiative, a collection of equine industry and welfare professionals and advocates working together to improve the lives of horses in transition. A program of the ASPCA, their goal is to massively increase horse adoption in the United States. To find more adoptable horses and foster horses, visit www.myrighthorse.org. To learn more about The Right Horse, a program of the ASPCA, visit www.aspcarighthorse.org.

The post ASPCA Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week: Belle appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Photo courtesy Humane Society of Ventura County

Adoptable Horse: Tundra, an 18-year-old, 14.3hh Arabian gelding
Organization: Humane Society of Ventura County, Ojai, Calif.

Get to Know Adoptable Horse Tundra

Help the Humane Society of Ventura County find long-term resident Tundra his forever home! This 18-year-old gray Arabian gelding arrived at the HSVC on December 23, 2022, after being rescued by their Humane Officers in a case of abuse and neglect. Despite his past and medical issues of metabolic and thyroid problems, Tundra has a sweet personality and doesn’t let his setbacks stop him from trotting around. He would need time to acclimate to new horses, but Tundra would love to be someone’s pasture buddy.

Tundra has been saddled and is working with shelter staff to become more comfortable being ridden. He just needs a confident, patient owner who will move slowly with him until he’s relaxed. Due to his anxious nature, we don’t recommend he go to a home with a child rider. Tundra is also looking for an owner who will be mindful of his gut health and can supply his metabolic supplements and thyroid medications for the rest of his life.

Photo courtesy Humane Society of Ventura County

ASPCA Right Horse is the online adoption platform of The Right Horse Initiative, a collection of equine industry and welfare professionals and advocates working together to improve the lives of horses in transition. A program of the ASPCA, their goal is to massively increase horse adoption in the United States. To find more adoptable horses and foster horses, visit www.myrighthorse.org. To learn more about The Right Horse, a program of the ASPCA, visit www.aspcarighthorse.org.

The post ASPCA Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week: Tundra appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Photo courtesy Kentucky Humane Society

Adoptable Horse: Moxie, a 10-year-old, 14.2hh Mountain Horse-type mare
Organization: Kentucky Humane Society, Simpsonville, Ky.

Get to Know Adoptable Horse Moxie

Moxie is a beautiful, sooty chestnut Mountain Horse cross-type mare who was collected by KHS as a feral free roaming horse in December 2023. She was pregnant at the time but her foal was born healthy at KHS and has since found placement.

Moxie is a sturdy mare, very attractive in person, and hasn’t shown any unsoundness during her time with KHS. She was a very sensitive, flighty mare when she arrived but she’s coming around in handling with patience and time. Moxie would be a rewarding project for someone with training experience or could be adopted to someone who will send her for consistent training to develop her into the nice mare KHS knows she is destined to be. Adopters who aren’t experienced trainers or who don’t plan to utilize a trainer will not be considered for Moxie at this time for her best interest.

Moxie is currently in training in Wilmore, Ky. with Metcalfe Equine LLC. She has been doing extensive groundwork and learning a lot of the basics for the first time, like having her hooves picked out and trimmed, being caught and led daily, round pen work, etc.

She is most likely of Kentucky Mountain Saddle Horse, Rocky Mountain Horse, and Saddlebred genetics and may be gaited under saddle when the time comes. If you are interested in Moxie, please reach out to KKHS with any questions and check back for updates as she continues to learn the ways of life in domestication.

Contact Kentucky Humane Society today about ASPCA Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week, Moxie!

Photo courtesy Kentucky Humane Society

ASPCA Right Horse

ASPCA Right Horse is the online adoption platform of The Right Horse Initiative, a collection of equine industry and welfare professionals and advocates working together to improve the lives of horses in transition. A program of the ASPCA, their goal is to massively increase horse adoption in the United States. To find more adoptable horses and foster horses, visit www.myrighthorse.org. To learn more about The Right Horse, a program of the ASPCA, visit www.aspcarighthorse.org.

The post ASPCA Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week: Moxie appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Photo courtesy Wild at Heart Horse Rescue

Adoptable Horse: Alma, a 17-year-old, 15.1hh Kentucky Mountain Horse mare
Organization: Wild at Heart Horse Rescue, Lancaster, Calif.

Get to Know Adoptable Horse Alma

Meet Alma, a stunning Kentucky Mountain Horse mare with a story as remarkable as her spirit. Alma came from a wild herd roaming reclaimed Kentucky mine land. When toxic forage threatened the herd’s survival, the Kentucky Humane Society and ASPCA stepped in to bring them to safety—and that’s how Alma found her way to Wild at Heart Horse Rescue.

As one of the older mares in her group, Alma carried years of instinctive caution. Helping her learn trust again hasn’t been quick or simple—but it has been absolutely worth it. After three patient, dedicated years of gentle handling and relationship-building, Alma has blossomed.

Today, Alma is:
◆ Under saddle and confidently hitting the trails
◆ Standing calmly for the farrier, vet, and routine care
◆ Learning that humans can be safe and reliable partners

Alma is still a sensitive mare who will benefit from an adopter with patience, kindness, and a willingness to take things at her pace. But with the right person, she is ready to continue her transformation into a loyal and willing partner.

Contact Wild at Heart Horse Rescue today about ASPCA Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week, Alma!

ASPCA Right Horse

ASPCA Right Horse is the online adoption platform of The Right Horse Initiative, a collection of equine industry and welfare professionals and advocates working together to improve the lives of horses in transition. A program of the ASPCA, their goal is to massively increase horse adoption in the United States. To find more adoptable horses and foster horses, visit www.myrighthorse.org. To learn more about The Right Horse, a program of the ASPCA, visit www.aspcarighthorse.org.

The post ASPCA Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week: Alma appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Photo courtesy Horse and Hound Rescue Foundation

Adoptable Horse: Moven Van, a 4-year-old, 17.2hh Thoroughbred gelding
Organization: Horse and Hound Rescue Foundation, Guthrie, Okla.

Get to Know Adoptable Horse Moven Van

Moven Van earned $27,612 during his racing career before being responsibly retired and joining the Horse and Hound Rescue family. This handsome guy arrived while recovering from an abscess, and he was an absolute gentleman during his treatment—patient in the stall and polite while soaking his foot.

Now that he’s feeling better, Moven Van is enjoying his downtime and making new friends out in the pasture. He’s sound, friendly, and soaking up the chance to just be a horse for a while. Once he’s had a bit more rest, Horse and Hound will begin his evaluation to see what direction he’d like to go in next.

Contact Horse and Hound Rescue Foundation today about ASPCA Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week, Moven Van!

Photo courtesy Horse and Hound Rescue Foundation

ASPCA Right Horse

ASPCA Right Horse is the online adoption platform of The Right Horse Initiative, a collection of equine industry and welfare professionals and advocates working together to improve the lives of horses in transition. A program of the ASPCA, their goal is to massively increase horse adoption in the United States. To find more adoptable horses and foster horses, visit www.myrighthorse.org. To learn more about The Right Horse, a program of the ASPCA, visit www.aspcarighthorse.org.

The post ASPCA Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week: Moven Van appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.