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!

The post How Colorado State University’s Equine Program is Helping Adoptable Horses appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

See below for the horses available during the ASPCA Virtual Adoption Event of May 2024!

Tristan

From Wild at Heart Horse Rescue in Lancaster, Calif.

Meet Tristan, the six-year-old pony who’s both safe for children and an absolute superstar in the making. With his gentle demeanor and unwavering reliability, Tristan is the perfect companion for young riders looking to embark on their equestrian adventures. Whether it’s walking, trotting, or cantering in the arena, Tristan excels with flying colors, making every ride a memorable experience. But his talents don’t stop there — Tristan is equally at home hitting the trails, whether it’s exploring independently or joining a group adventure. Plus, Tristan is a model citizen for the farrier and is up-to-date on all his care needs, ensuring a smooth transition into his forever home. Learn more about Tristan here.

Titan

From Wild at Heart Horse Rescue in Lancaster, Calif.

Titan is the epitome of a sweetheart with a heart of gold. Each day in the arena, he continues to amaze Wild at Heart Horse Rescue with his progress, growing softer and more correct with every session. But it’s on the trails where Titan truly shines, showcasing his unparalleled confidence and contentment in the great outdoors. If you’re dreaming of endless adventures on the trails with a horse you can trust and rely on, Titan is the perfect match for you. Learn more about Titan here.

Dream

From Happy Trails Farm Animal Sanctuary in Ravenna, Ohio

Looking for a horse that will make you LOL? Dream is your guy! This dark and bold gelding may not be able to be ridden, but he’s got a personality that’s pure gold. He loves to stick his tongue out and play the fool. Learn more about Dream here.

Keep an eye on our Instagram stories to keep up with this Virtual Adoption Event to celebrate Adopt a Horse Month!

The post ASPCA Virtual Adoption Event: Adopt a Horse Month 2024 appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Adoptable Horse: Our Son, a 3-year-old 15.3hh Thoroughbred gelding
Organization: Second Stride, Prospect, Ky.

Get to Know Adoptable Horse Our Son

A 3-year-old Thoroughbred gelding bred in Kentucky, Our Son is by Mastery (a son of Candy Ride) and out of Glossy, by Broken Vow.

Our Son never raced or trained to race due to conformation (turned front legs). He is suitable for low to moderate intensity riding in non-speed competition disciplines, but he will not be suitable for more than low level jumping.

Our Son is a lovely gelding — calm and easy going, level-headed and sweet. He has completed one month of daily groundwork and riding, and now is working under saddle several times per week working on steady gaits, transitions, and changes of direction in the arena. He also enjoys and is a trustworthy partner on walks around the farm.

Our Son enjoys grooming and attention and is gentle with children. He will be a wonderful farm, family and trail horse.

Contact Second Stride today about ASPCA Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week, Our Son!

Could this week’s adoptable horse be the Right Horse you have been waiting for? Click here for more information about Our Son, the ASPCA Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week.

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: Our Son appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Adoptable Horse: Vixen and Pipsqueak, a Miniature Mule and Miniature Horse/Shetland mix duo
Organization: Owner 2 Owner Program (aka – Maryland Equine Transition Service), Woodbine, Md.

Get to Know Adoptable Equines Vixen and Pipsqueak

Please note the owner of this duo wants these horses placed in Maryland or states immediately surrounding. Their new home must keep them on a dry lot.

Vixen and Pipsqueak are an adorable pair seeking a home where they can continue to live together. Vixen is the Mini Mule and Pipsqueak is a Shetland/Miniature Horse cross. These two have been together since Pipsqueak was a baby, so it’s no doubt that they are bonded and no question why their owner would like to keep them together.

Pipsqueak and her mother were taken in from a situation where they were not getting the best of care. When they needed a companion, they found Vixen to keep her company. Now, due to life changes, their owner is hoping to find a home where they can get the love and attention they deserve, and continue to live out their lives together.

It’s hard not to get drawn in by Vixen’s little stature and big ears. You can approach her with empty hands and she’s receptive, but once she sees that halter and lead rope come out, she quickly changes her mind! So she will definitely need some work on catching. However, once caught, she’s a joy to work around. She’ll stretch herself out like a dog at an AKC show and will just soak up all the attention. Her favorite thing is the curry. Vixen is good for the farrier, but is not a fan of shots, so that is another project for her new owner to work on with her. O2O observed Vixen lunge at the walk/trot and she did well.

Pipsqueak is a lovely chocolate palomino pinto pony with huge, expressive eyes. This little girl can also be a little difficult to catch, but is also fine once you do. She stood well for grooming, but was less willing to stand to have her feet picked. Pipsqueak has dealt with chronic laminitis and, unfortunately, has foundered. This is more than likely the reason why she is not as willing to have her hooves handled. O2O would suggest that her new owner have her evaluated by a vet for possible metabolic disorders, as this has been a lifelong issue. She is currently not receiving any treatment, so hopefully addressing the root cause of her laminitis will help to prevent future problems.

As a result of Pipsqueak’s laminitis (and Vixen’s heftiness…), these girls are going to require a dry lot in their new home where they will be maintained on a grass-less diet. If you’re one who likes the challenge of getting a horse back on track and feeling better, Pipsqueak is the one for you!

Both girls have been handled by kids, dressed up in costumes and made appearances at the barn’s Christmas parties in years past. They’d be great to continue in a program with kids, as they do truly seem to enjoy it. They obviously love attention (as much as they hate to admit it), so it would be great for them to find a home where they’ll get their fill!

Vixen and Pipsqueak will be up to date on everything prior to leaving for their new home. They will come with all of their supplies and costumes.

Contact Owner 2 Owner Program today about ASPCA Right Horse Adoptable Equines of the Week, Vixen and Pipsqueak!

Could this week’s adoptable equines be the Right Horses you have been waiting for? Click here for more information about Vixen and Pipsqueak, the ASPCA Right Horse Adoptable Equines of the Week.

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 Equines of the Week: Vixen and Pipsqueak appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Adoptable Horse: Serious Heat, a 15-year-old 16.0hh Thoroughbred mare
Organization: Second Stride, Prospect, Ky.

Get to Know Adoptable Horse Serious Heat

Serious Heat is a 15-year-old, California-bred Thoroughbred. She never raced and has no published works. She has had 9 registered foals.

Currently sound, Serious Heat is looking for her third career after putting in hard work as a mother. She will need a more experienced rider to get her started back under saddle.

If you are looking for the world’s most perfect trail horse, look no further. Serious Heat has a small, stocky build that screams western and with her calm disposition, she should enjoy a leisurely ride through the woods or farm. She also seems to enjoy going over poles and hasn’t shied away from any of them. Maybe a nice little hunter/jumper course is in her future.

Serious Heat is kind and easygoing with a sensible mind. She gets along well with other mares in the field and seems intelligent. She is a nice mare with a lot left to give her next partner in her new job!

Contact Second Stride today about ASPCA Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week, Serious Heat!

Could this week’s adoptable horse be the Right Horse you have been waiting for? Click here for more information about Serious Heat, the ASPCA Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week.

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: Serious Heat appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Adoptable Horse: Cooper, a 10-year-old 15.0hh Appaloosa gelding
Organization: Lollypop Farm, Fairport, N.Y.

Get to Know Adoptable Horse Cooper

Meet Cooper! This handsome boy has stunning looks and a great personality to boot. Cooper is looking for a companion home due to a past stifle injury which has left him unrideable.

But Cooper has so many other things going for him! He is very sweet, has good ground manners, gets along with other horses well, and is fairly low-maintenance. Cooper was gelded a bit later in life, and tends to get a little too interested in mares, so a home where he’s turned out with geldings is preferable. Cooper will need the arthritis in his stifle monitored over his life, but all the amazing qualities he will bring to your family will make it more than worth it!

Cooper is suitable as a companion horse only, and is adoptable for a fee of $300 or eligible for C.A.R.E Program.

Could this be your Right Horse? Click here for more information about Cooper, the ASPCA Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week.

My Right Horse

My 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’s Right Horse Adoptable Horse: Cooper appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Adoptable Horse: Barbie, a 19-year-old 14.2hh American Quarter Horse mare
Organization: Wild at Heart Horse Rescue, Lancaster, Calif.

Get to Know Adoptable Horse Barbie

This beautiful little mare from Wild at Heart Horse Rescue in California is the perfect family horse. Gentle and kind, this adorable little lady is spectacular on the trail as well as in the arena. Barbie will make a great first horse for a child that is ready to move up from a lesson horse. She is up to date on everything and will be microchipped upon adoption.

A quick note from Barbie’s trainer at Wild at Heart Horse Rescue:

“Definitely shows signs of extensive previous training. She is neck-reined and has lead changes — they’re rusty but they’re there! Goes on trail both alone or in a group but prefers the company of another horse while she’s out.”

Could this be your Right Horse? Click here for more information about Barbie, the ASPCA Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week.

My Right Horse

My 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’s Right Horse Adoptable Horse: Barbie appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

In 2021, during the second annual Adopt a Horse Month, more than 44,000 people viewed adoptable horses on myrighthorse.org, and participating adoption partners reported an average increase in adoptions of 43 percent during that month.

See below for the horses available during the second ASPCA Virtual Adoption Event of May 2023!

Espresso

From Win Place Home, Inc. and located at Birtwick Park Equestrian Center in Canyon Country, Calif.

Espresso is a very sweet and mellow 4-year-old Thoroughbred gelding. He enjoys being groomed, hanging with his human friends, and being part of the fun! He broke his left front fetlock and had surgery in 2022, but that does not stop him. He’d love to have a companion home. Learn more about Espresso here.

Tik Tok

From Happy Trails Farm Animal Sanctuary in Ravenna, Ohio

Tik Tok is a curious and intelligent 6-year-old Mustang gelding who is trusting of people. He will make a wonderful partner for a person experienced enough to provide continued confidence in his training. He’d love a home with another horse. Learn more about Tik Tok here.

Onyx

From New Mexico Horse Rescue at Walkin N Circles Ranch in Stanley, N.M.

Onyx is a 1-year-old black beauty who is waiting for her loving home. She has blossomed at the New Mexico Horse Rescue and learned to trust new handlers. She tends to bond deeply with her person and has experience in-hand working over a variety of obstacles. Now, she’s looking for an adopter to continue her training! Learn more about Onyx here.

Suri

From Longmeadow Rescue Ranch in Union, Mo.

Suri is a calm 14-year-old Quarter Horse mare who turns heads everywhere she goes! Going on trail rides makes her happiest and she has impeccable ground manners. She’d thrive with an adopter who wants to hit the trails and seek adventure. Learn more about Suri here.

Ty

From Second Stride in Prospect, Ky.

Ty is a real piece of eye candy and has the charm to match! He is a barn, track, and fan
favorite – a real sweetheart. He is easy to groom, gets along well with his neighbors, and enjoys watching the farm. He gives love like a champ and will make a great partner in his next career! Learn more about Ty here.

Keep an eye on our Instagram stories to keep up with this Virtual Adoption Event to celebrate Adopt a Horse Month!

The post ASPCA Virtual Adoption Event – May 24, 2023 appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

In 2021, during the second annual Adopt a Horse Month, more than 44,000 people viewed adoptable horses on myrighthorse.org, and participating adoption partners reported an average increase in adoptions of 43 percent during that month.

While Adopt a Horse Month also raises public awareness and encourages conversations about adoption, adoption is, of course, the top priority. With these virtual adoption events, ASPCA hopes to place horses in loving homes.

See below for the horses available during the first ASPCA Virtual Adoption Event of May 2023!

Noelle

From West Virginia Horse Network in Elkview, W.Va.

Noelle is a sweet pony who has won the hearts of volunteers at West Virginia Horse Network! She would be great as a companion for another very laid-back docile horse. Noelle is 30 years old and is not rideable but she’d love to be groomed, walked and loved on by horse lovers of all ages! Learn more about Noelle here.

Cara

From New Mexico Horse Rescue at Walkin N Circles Ranch in Stanley, N.M.

Cara is a petite 9-year-old mare who is easy to halter and just loves attention! She was originally found wandering alone. No one has come to claim her but since she has been found, her rescuers have quickly become her family and are now searching for an adopter! Learn more about Cara here.

Tag

From Wild at Heart Horse Rescue in Lancaster, Calif.

Tag, also known as Atlas of Taggart, is a chunky monkey-type with more “woah than go” smooth walk, trot and canter. This 15-year-old gelding has been primarily working in the arena but, now that he’s got the basics, he can enjoy himself on the trail more. He loves his treats and friends too! Learn more about Tag here.

Dakota

From MSPCA at Nevins Farm in Methuen, Mass.

15-year-old Dakota is a pint-sized little peanut who is ready to snuggle his way right into your heart! Since his arrival, he has quickly become a staff and volunteer favorite. Dakota did not have a lot of formal training but has started to work on his ground manners and learns quickly. He aims to please! Learn more about Dakota here.

Orchid

From MSPCA at Nevins Farm in Methuen, Mass.

Orchid is a 3-year-old petite mare with tons of potential! She will need a long build-up of groundwork and conditioning before she could carry an adult rider. While she is still learning the basics, this sweet girl is ready to find a person who she can learn and grow with together! Learn more about Orchid here.

Keep an eye on our Instagram stories to keep up with this Virtual Adoption Event and others to come during Adopt a Horse Month!

The post ASPCA Virtual Adoption Event – May 10, 2023 appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Adoptable Horse: Bryce, 14-year-old 14.3hh grade mare
Organization: New Mexico Horse Rescue at Walkin N Circles Ranch, Stanley, N.M.

Get to Know Bryce

My Right Horse

My 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.therighthorse.org.

The post ASPCA’s Right Horse Adoptable Horse: Bryce appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.