DO YOU NEED TO DONATE A STANDARDBRED?
There are just a few things you should know.
Application:
The horse must be donated. Futures For Standardbreds does not purchase horses to enter the program. To understand the process, click on the How it Works button below. Click on the Application to Donate Standardbred button to obtain and complete the proper form. Once the application is received and reviewed, contact is made with the donor to arrange a date, time, and place for the board members to assess the horse.
Assessment:
Assessment is by FFS board members based upon their availability and experience assessing horses. The horse will be assessed for temperament, soundness, overall workability in the program, and currently available foster homes. All board members present will conduct the assessment and take notes and photos to be reviewed by the entire FFS board for approval. Once the FFS board has reviewed the assessment, they will vote on whether or not to accept the horse and the decision will be communicated to the donor as soon as possible. An adoption agreement is then signed by the donor transferring ownership to FFS. This document is to be signed by the donor and FFS board members when the horse is transferred. Trailering is provided by an FFS board member.
Training:
The horse will enter the program for a two-week trial period for assessment as a riding or driving horse. If during this two-week period the horse is found to be unfit for the program, the horse will be returned to the donor. If the horse is found to be fit and suitable, the donor will be notified and the horse will begin training. After the horse has settled into the program, it will be trained under saddle or in pleasure harness by qualified board members and/or volunteers.
Care & Fostering:
During the training period, FFS assures that the horse will receive adequate veterinary care, regular care from a farrier, and shelter, food, and water commensurate with Maine state guidelines. When deemed ready, the horse will be advertised for adoption. All adoption fees from the placement of the horse are deposited in the FFS account to cover the cost of the next horse’s care and training.