Rehoming Scheme

Happy Horses Sanctuary is devoted to finding the right Guardian home for the horses and ponies we rescue and that are capable of having a fulfilling life outside of the Sanctuary.

If you are interested in Rehoming a Horse or Pony please contact us.

Frequently Asked Questions

I'm Interested in rehoming a pony. What steps do I need to take?

Firstly you need to contact us with your requirements, consider carefully what type of horse you are looking for and what you will want to do with them. Once we have assessed your requirements and if we have a horse or pony suitable, we will invite you to the Sanctuary to meet the horses.

Do I have to sign anything?

Yes, you will need to sign a legally binding loan agreement. This agreement states that the horse/pony cannot be moved to other premises without our permission, sold or used for breeding and that you are responsible for all costs incurred in relation to that animal whilst they are in your care.

How much will it cost?

For a rideable horse there is a donation of £1000 and for ponies  or companion animals a donation of £500 is required.  These donations help keep the Sanctuary running and help us ensure that all guardians are financially capable of caring for the horses and ponies we rehome.

Who delivers the animal?

You can arrange to collect the horse or pony via your own transport arrangements or alternatively the Sanctuary can arrange to deliver the animal for you. Charges for this service are dependant on the distance from the Sanctuary to the new home.

How long can we keep the animal?

If everything is satisfactory you can keep the horse or pony for the rest of its life. Ideally we are looking for long term homes, however if your circumstances change the horse must be returned to us at your expense. You cannot hand them over to another person.

What happens if the horse becomes ill or has to be euthanized?

We do not place horses that we know will need veterinary treatment, part of the loan agreement is that all costs for veterinary care will fall to the guardian. Please notify us of any treatment the horse or pony receives. If the illness is serious, we will discuss the possibility of euthanasia with you and the vet. If this is the kindest option then it must be done on the premise where the animal is kept, we do not allow any of our horses or ponies to be  taken to the slaughterhouse or local hunt kennels.  We do advise that you insure the horse for a minimum premium to cover vet fees and saddlery. All our horses are open to vet before you offer them a home.

Can I take the horse to shows?

Yes, as long as the horse is capable. We do not however allow the horses or ponies to be used at  for commercial gain i.e. riding schools or trekking centres.

What about your retired/unrideable horses?

We are always looking for homes for companion horses and ponies. If you can accommodate a companion animal please contact us for more information. 

Do you have many problem animals?

Most of the horses and ponies in our care have come from troubled backgrounds or have health issues. These may range from allergies which can be managed by excluding certain foods to laminitis or Navicular which will need require life long care and consideration. Others may have behavioural issues. Please be honest with us as to your capabilities and where you are able to care for an animal with special requirements.

Do we have to have insurance?

Yes. Insurance of animals on the rehoming scheme is the direct responsibility of the guardian and we suggest a minimum of vet fees and saddlery to be covered by insurance premiums.

What about passports?

Passports will remain at the Sanctuary but are available to guardians when necessary i.e. shows, agreed movement and vaccination updates.

What happens if I move house/stables?

You will need to notify us in advance so we can ensure the new home/stables are suitable for the horse in your care.

What if I can no longer take care of the horse?

The animal will need to be returned to the Sanctuary at your expense. Any remaining insurance policies will need to be signed over to the sanctuary.