Adoption-Requirements

Adoption Requirements

The following guidelines are applicable to general equine management pratices and are required of all persons adopting an equine from Safe Haven Equine Rescue and Retirement Home, Inc..

If at any time the adopter fails to follow procedures or an equine's health declines, Safe Haven Equine Rescue and Retirement Home, Inc. has the authority to remove said equine from the property.

Shelter

Equines should be provided with shelter that provides protection from extreme weather including but not limited to:prevailing wind, snow, sleet, rain, sun and temperature extremes. All enclosures, stalls and / or shelters shall be kept in good repair and free of standing water, accumulated waste, sharp objects and debris. There should be no exposed nails or other objects that could potentially cause injury to the equine. In addition, equines shall be provided sufficient opportunity and space to exercise daily and have freedom of movement as necessary to reduce stress and maintain good physical condition.

Fencing

Fencing shall be of solid construction, without sharp edges and visible to equines; electric fencing is acceptable. All t-posts shall be appropiately capped when used as cross fencing to separate pastures, along any fence line adjacent to another equine property or/and property that is less than five acres. Fencing shall be monitored on a regular basis to ensure its safety and effectiveness is maintained.

Feed and Storage

Equines shall receive at a minimum the equivalent of 3% of their body weight per day in high quality forage and grain. If natural forage is insufficient in quality or quantity, quality hay shall supplement the diet. Diet shall be planned with consideration for the age, condition, size, and activity level of the equine. Individual feed buckets or pans should be provided for each equine. All storage and feeding receptacles shall be kept clean and free of contaminants, such as feces, mold, mildew, rodents and insects. Stored feed shall be kept in such a manner that equines cannot gain access to it.

Water

Troughs or individual water sources to provide adequate and clean water for all equines. All water shall be kept clean and free of hazardous contaminants and be positioned or affixed to minimize spillage. Use of defroster to prevent freezing in inclement weather is recommended. Equines that are being trained, worked, ridden or transported shall be provided water as often as necessary for their health and comfort. Frequency of watering shall take into consideration the age, condition and size of the equine, activity level and climatic conditions.