How to Adopt a Retired Racehorse
Long after the roses have wilted and the applause has faded the life of a racehorse is just beginning. While some retired racehorses go onto become great sires and broodmares, thousands of others will end up at shady sales or slaughter houses. Across the country non-profit organizations are striving to make adopting ex-racers an inexpensive alternative for experienced riders looking to own a horse.
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Instructions
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Locate an organization in your region that is dedicated to helping retired racehorses achieve successful second careers. Organizations are listed online for different thoroughbred and standardbred groups across the United States that specialize in adoption.
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Speak with a representative from an organization near you about the adoption process and whether adopting an ex-racer is right for you. Retired racehorses, like people, come in every size, shape and form. While most ex-racers require an experience rider, there are a few special former racehorses that are suitable for riders of other levels.
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Fill out an application form and turn it into your chosen organization. Most groups will have a volunteer or employee visit the facility you plan on boarding or keeping your adopted ex-racer at to make sure it is suitable.
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Look for a horse that fits your experience level, riding needs and desires. Most organizations will go through great pains to match you up with a horse that suits your needs. If they don't currently have a retired racehorse that meets all your requirements, you may wait for one to become available or consider another association.
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Ride your chosen horse several times, if possible, and spend time getting well-acquainted with him before you adopt him. Most racehorses are not ready to begin their second career as soon as they are retired. They will need time to relax and possibly recover from an injury. Some retired racehorses will never again be rideable. These horses make great pasture pals or companion animals.
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Pay the one time, non-refundable adoption fee. The fee can range from $150 to $3,000 depending on the organization. Since most organizations are non-profit they rely on donations, grants and adoption fees to pay the bills.
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Prepare yourself for the amount of work retraining and managing a retired racehorse is going to take. How difficult the retraining process is will depend largely on your former racehorse's health, mental aptitude and maturity and his past experience. Some organizations do basic retraining before offering a former racehorse for adoption. Others just help the horse recuperate from any injuries. Seek help from a profession trainer or experienced horseperson when in doubt.
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