Adoption Best Practice Guidelines
This Old Horse recommends all adoptive owners/homes provide the following:
Adequate Food and Water:
- Nutritious feed (hay/grain) of adequate and appropriate nutritive value must be provided in sufficient quality and be free from contamination.
- Equines shall have access to adequate forage or be fed daily.
- Diet shall be prepared with consideration for the horse’s age, breed/type, condition, size, work level, etc.
- Equines should score, by a veterinarian, no less than a body condition score of 5 on the Henneke System of Body Condition Scoring to be considered of adequate weight.
- If more than one animal is fed at one time or in one place, it is the responsibility of the caregiver to separate animals for equal feeding.
- Clean, potable water must be available at all times in receptacles that are free from contamination.
Adequate Veterinary/Farrier Care:
- A horse shall be afforded immediate veterinary care if known or suspected to have an injury, ailment, or other medical need.
- Horse must receive an annual dental check-up and necessary treatment to ensure proper and adequate food digestion.
- Vaccinations must be given as recommended by a veterinarian.
- Hoof care must be maintained with regular trimming or shoeing as directed by a veterinarian or farrier.
Parasites must be kept under control through a consistent worming program as directed by a veterinarian.
Adequate Shelter and Space:
- Taking into consideration age, breed/type, and health, horse must have access to adequate shelter or protection from inclement weather conditions. Adequate shelter must have a roof and three sides. It must be kept in good repair and free of standing water, accumulated waste, sharp objects, etc.
- Horse shall be allowed to exercise and have freedom of movement in a safe, usable space to reduce stress and maintain good physical condition.
- Enclosed areas must be constructed or modified to allow free flow of air to control temperature and humidity, and to prevent air stagnation.
Fencing shall be well-maintained and in good repair at all times. Fencing adequate for horses needs to be highly visible and of a minimum of four feet. Barbed-wire fencing is not considered appropriate for horses.
Any animal adopted from This Old Horse cannot be sold, traded, or given away. If for any reason the adopted animal is no longer wanted or care for the animal does not meet the previously outlined standards, at any time, the animal can be returned to This Old Horse.