Resources for Horse Owners

Programs designed to get you and your horse through troubled times

It seems that horse ownership is getting more and more expensive every day. Costs associated with just about all aspects of the business aren’t even “creeping” up anymore, now they are increasing by leaps and bounds. Take, for instance hay, there appears to be no end in sight when it comes to the rising costs associated with feeding horses. Select hays are now selling for has high as $30 per small bale in some parts of the country! With extreme drought conditions throughout a significant portion of the hay growing regions in the western United States, prices may rise even higher.

Undoubtedly, many horse owners will continue to have to make tough decisions when it comes to keeping, selling or re-homing their horses. The following organizations are doing a great job in providing some assistance.

The Unwanted Horse Coalition (UHC) seeks to reduce the number of unwanted horses and to improve their welfare through education and the efforts of organizations committed to the health, safety, and responsible care and disposition of these horses. The UHC manages on online directory of facilities in each state that accept unwanted horses and administers the Operation Gelding program which provides financial aid to local non-profit horse organizations that facilitate equine castration clinics. In addition, the coalition creates and disseminates excellent information regarding the costs and responsibilities that one can expect when owning a horse.

A Home for Every Horse provides an online clearinghouse to not only post a national ad to place your horse or find a new one, but also to find a horse rescue in your area. This website is user friendly and provides an ehttp:xcellent way to connect with horses around the country.

The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) continues to demonstrate strong support for horses in need through their ASPCAPro Equine Fund. The fund provides several different types of grants to organizations seeking assistance in caring for horses. Other ASPCA initiatives include the “Hay It Forward” program in which patrons of participating feed stores or horse show participants at certain competitions can opt to contribute to a non-profit horse rescue.

The much needed Second Chance Fund offered by the American Humane Association will review requests for assistance in rehabbing a neglected horse, however the request most come from a 501(c)3 horse rescue organization.

It is nice to know that help is out there as some of us struggle to make ends meet and care for our hooved companions. Is anyone else aware of resources to assist horse owners during these difficult times? Please share if you have any thoughts!

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