Reasons to adopt a rescued horse

Adopting an animal who hasn’t had the best start in life can have an incredibly positive impact on them. By giving a rescued animal a loving, safe, forever home, you’re gifting them the opportunity for a second chance at happiness – which is something to be proud of!

But did you know there are many other reasons you might want to consider adopting your next furry family member, beyond doing something kind for them? Read on, to explore just five of the reasons you may want to adopt a rescued horse…

Remember: Taking on a rescued horse is a huge commitment – emotionally and financially.

Reason 1 – You're making a positive difference 

Often, horses who have been mistreated will need plenty of time to learn that not all people are going to cause them harm. So, caring for a rescued horse requires patience and understanding. However, through your dedication and care, you’re helping your new horse heal from the negative experiences of their past. 

In addition to transforming the life of a rescued horse for the better, by adopting from an animal rescue charity, you’re also helping to fund their incredible work. Through supporting hardworking animal welfare charities, you’re ensuring that even more horses get a second chance at finding a kind and caring forever home.

Reason 2 – Ongoing support from the rescue centre 

Most animal welfare charities who rehome horses can provide ongoing support if needed. This means that if you find your new horse’s behaviour challenging or you’re concerned about their health, the rescue centre is there to offer help and advice. 

Reason 3 – Your new horse is more likely to have been vetted already

It’s expensive to have a prospective new horse fully vetted. Yet, if you adopt or rehome a horse from an animal welfare charity or rescue centre, it’s likely your new four-legged friend has already had a thorough health assessment. 

Reason 4 – Your new horse is more likely to suit to your riding level

While you could read our comprehensive guide to buying a horse, adopting a horse might reduce the risk of ending up with horse whose abilities aren’t a match to yours. For example, private sellers may conceal a horse’s traits (i.e. feeding “calmer” before you visit), whereas a rescue centre should thoroughly assess your compatibility with your potential new horse before you adopt them. 

Don’t forget! You can ask a qualified riding instructor for advice before buying or adopting a new horse if you’d like an impartial second opinion. (The BHS’ free find a coach feature is available to help you find your nearest riding instructor).

Reason 5 – Many rescue centres will take horses back if needed

Sometimes, even if we dedicate ourselves to working with a rescued horse or pony in an attempt to offer them a wonderful second chance, things don’t work out. As heartbreaking as it can be when it doesn’t go to plan with a rescued horse, you should have the option to return them to the rescue centre or charity. 

For many, knowing their rescued horse will have somewhere safe to go where they’ll be cared for if unforeseen circumstances (financial or otherwise) arise can provide peace of mind.

If you’re considering adopting a rescued horse or pony from an animal charity or rescue centre, visit our horse owner checklist to make sure you have everything they need!