How to Adopt a Thoroughbred in Southern California

There's no better place to adopt an ex-thoroughbred racehorse than Southern California. You can even have a horse delivered from other racetracks in the state, such as Golden Gate Fields in Berkeley, for a nominal fee. A thoroughbred is a tall, thin horse, bred to run powerfully. But a thoroughbred can also make a great trail horse, hunter/jumper or dressage prospect. Be careful about health issues as these horses have been broken and raced as 2- and 3-year-olds. As long as you check out your prospects thoroughly, you can get a great horse for a reasonable price.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

How to Adopt a Thoroughbred in Southern California

1. Make a wish list for the qualities you're seeking in your thoroughbred. Size, gender, color, age, personality, energy level, soundness, agility--it's all important. You can find horses available from trainers at Del Mar, Santa Anita, Hollywood Park and Pomona. Some horses are even free, but be careful: A racehorse fresh from the track needs a few months off. And after that you'd need a slow readjustment period to the real world outside the racetrack.

2. Check out United Pegasus Foundation, which rescues thoroughbreds and Pregnant Mare Urine horses and always has several for adoption at two ranches in Hemet and in Tehachapi.

3. Try Tranquility Farms, also in Tehachapi.

4. Look at the CanterUSA website. Click on California. It always has thoroughbreds for adoption.

5. Ride your thoroughbred, if possible, before buying. Talk to the trainer or owner, and get the horse a vet check. The more you know about your new friend, the better choice you will make. Be aware that the younger the horse, the greener his skills for dealing with the outside world. He will know the noise of the racetrack, but will have never walked down a street curb. You'll have to be able to train and work with your new horse.

Resources

• CanterUSA
• United Pegasus Foundation
• Tranquility Farms