Characteristics of relinquishing and adoptive owners of horses associated with U.S. nonprofit equine rescue organizations.

The research article explores the characteristics of people who have given up their horses to nonprofit equine rescue organizations and those who have adopted these horses in the U.S. The study is aimed at creating more effective strategies for horse adoption and responsible horse ownership.

Objective and Methodology

• The focus of this research was on the owners who surrender their horses to nonprofit equine rescue organizations and the people or families who adopt these horses. The researchers conducted surveys with 144 nonprofit organizations in 37 states, covering information related to 280 horses that were given up between 2006 and 2009, out of which 73 were adopted.

Study Findings

• The findings from the survey data revealed important characteristics of the people involved. The majority of people who turned in their horses to the rescue organizations were women, but the majority of those who adopted the horses were families or couples.
• Most people who relinquished their horses had prior experience with horses and had owned the horse they surrendered for between one and five years. About half of these people owned one other horse.
• On the adoption side, three-fourths of the people or families adopting horses had other horses at their properties. The majority of adopted horses were primarily used for riding or driving.

Implications of the Study

• These findings can provide valuable input for the development of education programs aimed at promoting responsible horse ownership. Knowing the demographic and experience level of people giving up their horses can help target education and awareness initiatives to the right audience.
• The characteristics of adoptive owners can inform the criteria used by rescue organizations to match horses with potential new owners, thereby maximizing the chances of successful transitions for the horses.

Future Potential

• In the broader scope, this study contributes to addressing the issue of “unwanted” horses in the United States. The insights gained can be applied by rescue organizations, policy makers, and the equine industry to minimize the number of unwanted horses and enhance animal welfare.