| Q&A on adopting rescued or rehabilitated equines |
It’s not just adoption; it’s saving a life. Central Florida Ag News spoke with Dawn Bazemore, founder of Faith Equine Rescue, to talk about why adopting a rescued and/or rehabilitated horse is beneficial to the horse and its new owner. [emember_protected custom_msg=”Click here and register now to read the rest of the article!”]
Central Florida Ag News (CFAN): Tell us about the process to adopt a rescued and/or rehabilitated horse.
Dawn Bazemore: We have potential owners fill out an adoption application and provide a veterinary or professional reference. If the application is a go, we visit the potential owner’s property to inspect where the horse will be. From there, we have the potential owner spend time with the horse to see if they are the right match before continuing the adoption. Our entire process can take about two weeks (at the most) as long as I get in touch with the veterinarian and farrier.
CFAN: What should potential horse owners be aware of while going through the adoption process?
DB: First, we want potential owners to know this is a huge commitment, not just financially but emotionally, as you will be responsible for all the horse’s care for its entire life. Potential owners should make sure the rescue group adopting out the horse is legitimate, as some groups may be just trying to make money. Do your research and look into the group before adopting. Have a veterinarian do a check on the horse to see that it is truly conditioned and well, as some groups give you a sound horse that is drugged and becomes an unsettled, dangerous animal once the drugs wear off.
CFAN: What should the owner do before and after the horse arrives?
DB: It’s important to get the proper feed and hay for the inspected area the horse will be in and fix any dangerous issues we point out. Once the horse is there, walk around with the horse to show it where its feed and water is, while also setting a daily schedule the horse can recognize at the barn. Most horses adjust very well after being a little skittish or on high alert at first. If they are not eating or drinking, then there is a problem that needs to be addressed.
CFAN: Overall, why is it a good idea to adopt a rescued and/or rehabilitated horse?
DB: A rescued horse will be up-to-date on all its medical needs and behavior assessments from the rescue group, so you know what you are getting. If you do have problems with the horse after adoption, legitimate rescue groups will take the horse back. More importantly, it is saving a life and allowing a rescued horse to be taken to a new home, so our facility is ready to take in another horse that needs help. Essentially, you are saving two lives.
CREDITS
story by BLAIR TOWNLEY [/emember_protected]