The morning of Thursday June 15th, 2023, the Central Virginia Horse Rescue team received a phone call from the Virginia State Task Force that our team was needed at a seizure in Shenandoah County. During the initial call, our team was told that we were expecting there to be 130+ thoroughbreds on a breeding farm located in Mount Jackson.
CVHR mobilized our seizure response team and pulled volunteers from across multiple farms who were able to provide assistance to law enforcement and veterinary teams in horse handling and horse transport. The total number of horses examined at the farm was close to 100 making it the second largest seizure in the state of Virginia next to Peaceable Farms in 2015.
CVHR took 25 horses from the seizure and the horses are spread out between the CVHR rescue farm in Fredericksburg and our 3 foster farms. Item donations can be sent to the 4 farms using the following Amazon wish lists:
Finding the perfect home for your rehomed horse is a top priority. As a responsible horse owner, it’s crucial to take certain precautions to ensure your beloved equine companion ends up in a safe and loving environment. By following these recommendations, you can minimize the risk of your horse falling into the wrong hands.
1. Request References:
When considering potential buyers, ask for references from reliable sources, such as their vet and farrier, previous horse owners, or reputable trainers. Contacting these references can provide valuable insights into the buyer’s experience, knowledge, and overall suitability as a horse owner.
2. Speak with Their Vet and Farrier:
Reach out to the prospective buyer’s veterinarian and farrier to discuss the quality of care they provide to their current horses. These professionals can provide valuable information about the buyer’s commitment to equine health and welfare. If you are having difficulty getting a reference from the vet or farrier, consider the potential reasons why.
3. Request Photos of the Horse’s New Home:
Ask the buyer to share recent photographs of the facility where your horse will be kept. Assess the condition of the pastures, stables, fencing, and other relevant aspects. Ensure that the environment is safe, clean, and well-maintained, with ample space and appropriate amenities.
4. Examine their Social Media Pages:
Social media can provide useful insights into a potential buyer’s current horse-keeping practices. Browse their social media profiles to get a glimpse of how they care for their horses and their farm. Look for signs of responsible horse ownership, including regular veterinary care, appropriate nutrition, and a positive environment. Are they posting the same photos of their horses repeatedly but nothing current? Search their name on Facebook and see what kind of posts they have made. Are they constantly searching for horses or trying to sell them?
5. Perform a Google Search:
Conduct a thorough online search of the buyer’s name to uncover any negative information or red flags. Look for any past disputes, complaints, or legal issues that may suggest a potential risk for your horse’s well-being. While this step should not be the sole basis for decision-making, it can help you gather additional information.
Rehoming your horse is a significant decision, and ensuring their safety and well-being in their new home is paramount. By taking these essential precautions, such as checking references, speaking with their veterinarian and farrier, requesting photos, examining their social media presence, and performing a Google search, you can significantly reduce the chances of your horse ending up in a bad home. Remember, it’s your responsibility as a caring horse owner to take all necessary measures to secure a loving and suitable environment for your equine friend.
