If you look at the current population of horses at SAFE right now, eleven of them are what we call “companions” — older horses that can’t really be ridden anymore…but still need a safe, permanent home. Any of these horses would tell you that caring for a companion will enrich your life in ways you’ve never even thought of! Adopting a senior pet is the ultimate act of love; a clear example of something you do mostly for their sake. In the case of the older SAFE horses, these mares and geldings have survived neglect or abuse, and now they deserve permanent homes where they will be well fed, well cared for, and well loved.
One factor that sometimes holds people back from adopting a senior horse is the cost associated with their care, especially when it comes to the end of their lives. Euthanasia and removal can cost upwards of $1,000 in western Washington, which is a lot to take on. So SAFE would like to offer potential senior horse adopters some assistance with these costs.
If you adopt a companion horse from SAFE, we will sign a contract ensuring you that when the time comes to say goodbye, we will cover the costs of what needs to be done. Your lucky horse will come to you fully rehabilitated and up to date on all routine vet care, with an established feeding plan and an honest behavioral assessment. All we ask in return is that you carry on their good care, and let them know every day that they are home.
Offering this assistance is completely worth it to us, because it means that more of our beloved seniors will be able to enjoy a real home with a person or family that welcomes and values them. And crucially, by adopting one of our senior horses, you will have opened up space at SAFE for another horse to be rescued, a horse who desperately needs our help. We operate under a cap, which means we have to turn horses away when we don’t have space. So adopting a senior horse from us could literally save another horse’s life.
This program is not designed to make horse ownership affordable to anyone who can’t honestly afford it. The adoption will be approved or denied using the same requirements and standards as any horse we adopt out. As an adopter, you will legally own the horse, so you’ll be responsible for the cost of feed, shelter, farrier care, and vet care, for as long as their quality of life remains high.
When the end approaches, you will have our full support: logistical, financial, and even emotional. In the last 20 years, we’ve helped so many horses pass on, so we are well qualified to help you know what signs to watch for and how to carry through with dignity and love.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who makes the decision to euthanize the horse?
As the adopter, the decision to let your horse go is between you and your veterinarian, and no one else.
What portion of the cost of euthanasia will SAFE pay for?
SAFE will pay to have your licensed veterinarian come to your farm to humanely euthanize your adopted horse. We will cover the cost of the farm call, sedation, and the euthanasia procedure itself. We will also pay to have the horse removed by a livestock removal company. SAFE will not cover the cost of exams, diagnostics, or treatments leading to the decision to euthanize, overnight clinic stays, or cremation of the horse’s remains.
What if I want to bury my horse on my property?
SAFE can pay for the cost of excavation if you prefer to bury the horse on your property, but you are solely responsible for making sure that there are no laws or ordinances governing your right to do so. SAFE will not be held liable for any city, county, or state violations.
Under what circumstances should euthanasia be considered?
Any horse, regardless of age, may need to be humanely euthanized due to a serious illness or injury. But in the case of most senior horses, the adopter will need to pay close attention to the horse’s quality of life. Things to consider when evaluating quality of life include freedom from chronic pain, the ability to lie down and get back up easily, and the ability to move away from danger, real or perceived. Many senior horses deal with health issues that can cause their condition to slowly deteriorate, like Cushing’s disease, recurring laminitis or colic. A lack of appetite or an inability to keep weight on may be a sign that the horse is reaching the end of its lifetime. And a horse that is kept “pasture sound” with the help of pain medication for a long period of time may eventually suffer ulcers, colitis, or organ damage.
Many people believe that it’s better to say goodbye a week too early than a day too late. The reasoning behind this is that letting a horse go on “a good day” allows for a calm and peaceful passing, whereas waiting too long may mean risking a stressful emergency situation in which the horse ends up suffering. It can also be helpful to remember that horses don’t view time the same way that we do as humans. They live very much in the moment, and it’s up to their adopter to keep careful watch over them to ensure that that moment is as free of pain or discomfort as possible. It’s often said that “when it’s time, you’ll know.” As their trusted caretaker and friend, they will “tell” you when they are ready, as long as you are always listening.
Do I have to accept this financial assistance if I am comfortable covering these costs myself?
No, you are not obligated to make use of the monetary help. We hope that knowing it’s there will make it easier to say yes to a sweet and wonderful senior horse that needs you.
Which SAFE horses are included in this program?
Adoptable senior horses on the SAFE website that are included in this program will be designated as such with an icon and a link back to this page..
If you have questions that have not been addressed, please reach out to us at adopt@safehorses.org
