Second Chances: Adopting A Thoroughbred Racehorse

Most people think of buying a horse the traditional way, through their trainer or barn they are associated with, breeding horses they own or finding the right partner through the internet, sales barns or word of mouth.

Have you considered adopting a horse? And if you've decided that adopting might be appropriate, have you considered adopting an OTTB (Off The Track Thoroughbred)?

To be honest, Thoroughbreds are not for everyone. Most beginner riders would find a Thoroughbred to be too "hot" or sensitive. It is true that Thoroughbreds are extremely sensitive and can be less forgiving of a beginner's mistakes.

OTTB's are even more sensitive due to the training they undergo from the moment they are born. Once retired from racing, they need ample time to let down and just be a horse. No kidding, these guys have to learn to relax and unwind with months of pasture time!

In spite of time off and sensitivity issues, there are Thoroughbreds that are wonderful with every level of rider, and certainly well-trained horses make excellent partners. Most are not for beginner or low level riders, but if you have an educated seat and a lot of patience, there is no limit where you can go with your OTTB.

The main idea that must be kept in mind is that you have to earn a Thoroughbred's trust. Once you have that, you have a horse who is on your side for the remainder of his life.

Ex-race horses, unfortunately, are commodities. They are bred to make money for their owners and trainers, and if they fail to do so, are sold. That makes sense for the racing industry, but it doesn't mean that a perfectly wonderful horse can't do another job. The other situation is when an ex-racer performs well and becomes too old or injured. Often times these horses are sold (cheaply) or given away for free.

If you're interested in owning an OTTB, contact one of the agencies listed below. They are happy to help you find a great horse. Most adoption fees are very low. However, even though the price of buying the horse is low, the maintenance of owning any horse, whether for pleasure or performance, is expensive.

OTTB adoption agencies work with you to find the horse of your dreams. There are so many OTTB's available; far too many versus the amount of homes wanting to adopt.

Speak with the adoption agencies and also talk to OTTB owners for a glimpse into what it's like to have an ex-racer around. Their stories will surprise and delight you, as well as offer lots of rehabilitation information and hints.

My special project is LOPE, Lone Star Outreach for Ex-Racers. My daughter and I sponsor Wooden Phone, a Texas Thoroughbred legend. I've met Wooden Phone in his pasture when I was looking for a new horse, and I'll be the first to say that Wooden Phone is magnificent. In order to keep him at LOPE permanently, I struck a deal with Lynn, LOPE's founder. For a nominal amount each month, we send money for this splendid animal to live out his days, happily retired in LOPE's pastures.

Dedicated to ZMan, my favorite ex-racer.

Questioning what to do with your new OTTB? How will you begin training your new friend and easing him into his new life? New OTTB owners ask these questions and more. Beyond The Track has the answers.

Beyond the Track, an informative how-to guide by Anna Ford, came highly recommended by New Vocations Racehorse Adoption Program's Executive Director, Dot Morgan. Not only is Beyond The Track endorsed by lifetime horseman George Morris, but Keeneland Thoroughbred Racing & Sales pre-ordered 1,000 copies.

Olympian Karen O'Connor wrote the forward in this exciting, new book.

A portion of Beyond The Track's sales go to New Vocations. As part of my charitable donations for OTTB's, I've linked directly to the site.

Order your copy today!

Beyond The Track