Adopting a horse is just as complicated and stressful as buying one. But, in all honesty, the horses that are up for adoption are the ones that really need a new friend in their lives. Most of the horses that end up in caring centers are the ones that were rescued from becoming meat! As incredulous as it may seem, many horses that are well past their track racing days, end in up in slaughterhouses for meat. They are subjected to endless days of insufficient feeding, and dehydration before they are brutally slaughtered. Nothing about this industry can be considered humane. So, if you have decided to go ahead with thoroughbred horse adoption of one of these beautiful creatures instead of buying one, you have got a heart of gold! And do not worry there are many people that are willing to help you along the way.

Image courtesy: www.pixabay.com

Thoroughbred Horse Adoption- The Thoroughbred Equine

TB’s are one of the most common equine breeds we come across in shelters. Despite being excellent racing horses and earning millions to their owners, many of these beautiful horses end up alone. These horses date back to the 17^th and 18^th century Britain. They were the offspring of cross-breeding of stallions that were brought in from the Middle East. The Thoroughbreds are recognized as the best when it comes to racing. They are acknowledged for the agility of their bodies, the speed and the paramount spirit they showcase while on the track. Their lean bodies and long muscular legs make them ideal racing breeds In general thoroughbreds have the genetics for very athletic and powerful body types, this is why many people tend to look towards these breeds when it comes to racing.

Contrary to popular belief, thoroughbreds are actually very social creatures. They seem to be a more people-oriented breed given the fact that they were bred and brought up by people over the years. They showcase the high spirit and are known to be very bold in nature. TB’s are intelligent equines and are more teachable than other breeds. Even at a ripe age, they get along really well with adults and children in the household. They love the company and crave for attention.

However, there are a few things you’ll need to look into before going ahead with the adopting a TB.

Pre-adoption musts

The first advice we give any interested person is, never think it’s the same as taking in a new dog or cat to the family. Adopting and caring for a horse is no walk in the park. It requires a great amount of time, energy and a whole lot of money. Mark my word, the maintenance of any traditional pet is nothing compared to the workload of caring for an equine. The job comes with a vast amount of responsibilities and commitments to be made. So make sure you are well aware of what you are getting into and are fully prepared for the new addition into your family. The best option would be to get in touch with a friend or any person that is well experienced with equine care.

Listed below is a list of things you’ll need to look into before adoption.

1. What do you look for in your horse?

It is certainly gracious to adopt and care for the oldest horse or the neglected one, but do keep in mind that not every TB reacts to people the same. Depending on the equines upbringing and past experiences with humans, the one you like the most, may not be the best choice for bringing into your household. Make sure to thoroughly check the TB for his/her qualities and behavior with you and your family around it before going ahead with the adoption.

2. Look into the requirements

Make sure to sit down with the shelter management and properly go about what you’ll need for your particular horse. Any special housing requirements, food, medications, any specific requirements for the equine should all be well discussed and understood. As I said before, the horse is not your dog. so do not care for it like one.

3. Contact the right rescue

Many people make the mistake of not doing their research on the shelter itself. You need to understand that not all shelters play it fare. Some unethical rescues might cheat you into adopting the TB they want to send out fast or the perfect one for unreasonable prices. So make sure to contact a trustworthy shelter for adopting. Given below are some reputed shelters in different states.

Thoroughbred rescue California

• CANTER California
• GEVA
• Humanity for horses

Thoroughbred rescue Illinois

• Equine human center
• Horse rescue of will country

Thoroughbred rescue Washington

• CANTER
• ReRun

4. Prepare for a house check

An ethical shelter will be concerned about the equines well being more than the money. So they wouldn’t just give up the horse to anyone that shows up with the money. They will thoroughly test you on your knowledge of equine care and your motives for adopting the thoroughbred. They would pay a random visit to your home to check on the housing facility for the horse and the surrounding. So be well prepared in advance.

5. Get all the necessary documents in order

This would be the final step before being able to adapt your TB. Make sure you have all the necessary documents before adopting and to collect all the relevant documents of the equine after adoption.

As you can see, thoroughbred horse adoption or any horse breed is not for everyone. It takes a great amount of responsibility and sheer commitment. But if you are willing to put in the work, this is going to be the best decision you make!