RESPONSIBLE OWNERSHIP
WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO OWN RESPONSIBLY?
There are two things that often come to mind when thinking of horse ownership: how incredibly rewarding it can be, and how overwhelming the responsibility of owning a horse can be at times.
The meaning of the first is immediately apparent: Every horse owner quickly understands how rewarding it is to be part of a horse’s life, whether that life is showing, driving, racing, or of providing simple pleasure.
Raising our horses, training our horses, and being there when they excel at their particular discipline is both satisfying and extraordinary, and you soon come to understand what Winston Churchill meant when he said,
“There is something about the outside of a horse that is good for the inside of a man.”
Our horses become a catalyst for personal accomplishment, the center of family activity, and a means to further social interaction among those who own horses. But the rewards come with a responsibility — caring for the life of an animal who will come to rely upon us for food, shelter, healthcare, education, and emotional interaction. Horse owners also quickly begin to understand the complexities of such a “life bargain,” and accept it without reservation.
There are times, however, when the bond between horse and owner must be broken: There are changes in our personal lives, changes in the health of the horse, and other such circumstances that dictate the necessity to move on from that connection with our horses. In this booklet we discuss just such situations, and how you as a horse owner can responsibly bring your ownership of a horse to a positive end. It’s something that new or long-time horse owners don’t like to think about, but preparing for the day when a horse may become considered “at risk” or in transition, has to be considered as a fundamental aspect of horse ownership from the very first day we decide to own a horse.
We all must learn to “Own Responsibly.” That means that before you buy or breed a horse, you think about how your actions affect the future prospects for that horse. Your responsibility to your horse begins before your stewardship and extends past your care.
Fortunately, there are many options, and the United Horse Coalition is there to help you find them.
OUR RESOURCES:
Follow a manual added link
Resources for Current Owners:
- – Facilities that accept horses (what to ask before surrendering/retiring a horse.)
- – Feed and Hay Safety Net Programs
- – Castration programs and clinics
- – Funding for Veterinary Care
- – Euthanasia programs and clinics (info on helping to make a euthanasia decision)
- – Racing aftercare, placement, and training.
- – Other programs
Follow a manual added link
Resources for Prospective Owners:
- – Is Horse Ownership right for me?
- – Basic Horse Care and Costs
- – Alternatives to buying a horse
- – Finding “The Right Horse”
Follow a manual added link
Resources for Rescues/Sanctuaries:
- – Guidelines for Rescues
- – Accreditation
- – Match Horses with Adopters
- – Non Profit Management/Fundraising
- – Equine Welfare Grants
- – USTA financial assistance
Important and Useful Information:
Our Mission:
Through industry collaboration, the UHC promotes education and options for at-risk and transitioning horses.
Owning Responsibly:
The United Horse Coalition is a broad alliance of equine organizations that have joined together under the American Horse Council to educate the horse industry about the issues facing horses At-Risk, or in transition. We seek to provide information for existing and prospective owners, breeders, sellers, and horse organizations regarding the long-term responsibilities of owning and caring for horses, as well as focusing on the opportunities available for these horses.
Join the Cause:
The UHC exists thanks to supporters like you. Your financial contribution is critical to helping us continue our mission.
Make a donation or become a member today.
