Adopting A Horse

How soon after you rescue are the animals available for adoption?
Adoption of the horses depends on their condition when they come in – not only physically, but mentally as well. There may be training issues but there may be emotional issues that need to be dealt with as well. A horse that comes in healthy physically may need a specific type of person to work with them – both temperment wise, and riding wise.

What types of horses do you have available?
HorseNet Horse Rescue has many horses available for adoption. Some are ridable, and some are companion only. We don’t sell horses, but rather adopt them out to suitable and approved homes.

What is your criteria for potential buyers?
The adopters will be screened as far as their riding ability – and what they have to offer the horse. We don’t mind teaching people as long as they are willing to learn. We would not match up someone that wants to show and jump with a horse that is either unbroken or has leg issues. The horses ability needs to match up with what they want to ultimately do with the horse.

Do I need to live nearby to adopt from you?
HorseNet adopts out horses to residents of Maryland or anyone that resides 2.5-3 hours of the Mount Airy or New Windsor farm. For the health and safety of the horses, there are no exceptions to the policy.

Is there any paperwork involved besides the adoption agreement?
There is an adoption application which gives information on the person’s ability and their facility – as well as some history on horse/animal ownership/experience.

What should they bring to an adoption appointment?
An open mind.

How much does adoption cost?
Each horse is assigned their adoption fee based on their capabilities. Companion animals range from $0- $200, while ridable horses range from $300- $1200. Horses are shown to prospective adopters by appointment only. Please contact HorseNet to schedule an appointment.

How long does the adoption process take?
Not very long – we do expect the potential adopter to come ride/work with the horse 3 different times before things are finalized. That will let us see them work with the horse and allow the horse to tell us if they in fact even like the person or not.

What are potential adopters not allowed to do with their horses?
Our horses cannot be resold, re-homed, or bred. If an adopter can no longer care for their horse, the horse must be returned to HorseNet (sorry, adoption fees aren’t refunded).

Do you keep an eye on the animals in their adopted homes?
Yes, occasionally we will visit – most people send emails and pics and tell me how the horses are doing on a regular basis. The horses are not just items that we move through the program — they are our friends and family.

Where can I see your horses?
To see the available horses, please visit our rescue website & some of those horses have adoption videos for potential .

If you see a horse you’re interested in, please contact HorseNet to go meet them.

*These guidelines are specifically for HorseNet Horse Rescue, although most quality rescues should follow similar guidelines. Always check with whoever you are adopting from for their specific information.