Horses accepted into USHO are protected for life, so it is best to view USHO horses as a leased horse.

USHO horses may be used for any activities that they are physically and mentally suited for, with the exception of breeding. Horses are available for adoption (lease) on a long term or short term basis. At the end of any adoption, horses return to USHO and a familiar environment with familiar herd mates, while they wait for their next opportunity.

Long term adoption is similar to what most are already familiar with. The horse is placed into a home who keeps the horse for as long as their situation permits (even to death).

Short term adoptions are for beginning riders, 4H programs and college students who can reasonably be expected to out grow the horse's temperament and skills.

Horses who are not longer able to be atheltic ('residents') can be available for longer term foster care where both the horse and the adopter will benefit. If you need a pasture pal or companion horse, we would prefer to first try to find a horse that is currently in an at risk situation. However, we do have horses with known temperaments that have been proven safe and reliable with other horses and foals.

No matter what horse or the situation, any USHO horse can return at any time for any reason. It is preferable that horses be physically returned as soon as a problem is realized and it is safe to transport the horse. Any contractual obligations can be worked out after the fact.

USHO also provide fee-based "horse sitting" services for adopters who plan extended vacations or need to travel for their job (such as an overseas assignment)

Your tax deductable donation
enables us to feed and care for
the horses who are at USHO
for rehab and awaiting adoption!