outie

I know that not ever city or town as a local SPCA that will allow adoptions out for horses as they don't have the run to keep them to start with, but I was wondering if anyone has any inside info on this. Have you ever adopted a horse before, either from a local shelter or elsewhere? I am debating going this route rather than purchase from a private seller.

purplefdu

Adopting a horse is much harder than adopting a puppy or kitten, or even a more exotic pet such as a hamster. They are normally very, very picky about who and where these animals are placed with. I used to help at a shelter that placed horses and I'd say less than 1/4 the people actually ended up with a horse.

Be prepared to tell them everything but your first word as a kid. They are going to want to know your experience and background, every horse you've owned or had interactions with. They will also be asking about your riding experience and aspirations, especially if the horse is able to be ridden or has restrictions for usage. They are the most likely pet to show up for random inspections and follow ups and may also talk to your vet regularly.

HairyHorse

It's good to know that these checks are in place. However one has to wonder-the 75% who fail to adopt a horse, is there anything to stop them getting a horse another way? It seems a little sad to think that they will just turn around and buy one elsewhere when they are found unable to well care for a horse.

equinolo

Its probably not always that they can't care for a horse but that they can't care for a horse the way the rescue or shelter deems it necessary. I remember adopting my dog and almost not getting her because I worked. Now she wasn't a puppy, but they want you to be home at least every couple hours to let the dog out or have someone else do it, not leave it inside 8+hours while you work, even if it is an adult and able to hold it that long. I've known people who worked at home not get a puppy because they indicated their previous dogs didn't go to the vet regularly for checkups, or weren't current on their heartworm. Rescues and shelters are extremists when it comes to where their animals go and not everyone who is a good owner will qualify to get one of their animals just because they may have different ideas on how to care for the animal.

outie

I have seen people purchase horses from others at country fair so I do understand their reasons for being over protective. And for stating that an adult animal could "hold it" that long is just silly, are you kidding that has to be the quickest way to bladder issues later down the road.

I am not sure what I plan to do, I want a farm and I want some horses, but I guess we will see how things go for now first.