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If you're at least 18 years old, have never been convicted of cruelty to animals, and have adequate facilities to care for one, you can qualify to adopt a wild horse or burro. You can adopt up to four wild horses or burros within a 12 month period.
Each year 6,000 to 8,000 wild horses and 500 to 1,000 wild burros are offered for adoption by the Department of Interior's Bureau of Land Management. The managed health and welfare of wild horse and burro populations and the scarcity of natural predators result in thriving herds that increase each year.
A wild horse or burro is an unbranded, unclaimed, free-roaming animal found on public land in the western United States. They are descendants of animals released by or escaped from Spanish explorers, ranchers, miners, soldiers, or Native Americans.
Horses are generally solid in color and are mostly sorrels, bays, or browns, but all colors are available. Horses range in age from several months to 20 years. Most, however, are five years or younger.
When an animal is offered for adoption, it may have been a few months since it was running wild. For an additional fee, you can adopt a horse that has been halter and saddle trained.
It costs a minimum of $125 to adopt a wild horse or burro. Mares with unweaned foals are adopted for $125 plus another $125 for the foal. Adoption fees handle costs of gathering, medical treatment, transportation, and adoptions.
The adoption fee will be the smallest expense. You should consider budgeting for stall/corral rental, feed, medicine, veterinarian, tack, training, vaccinations, shoeing, salt/supplements, insecticides, worming, and grooming supplies. The annual cost can range from $300 to $1,000 or more per animal.
Adoptions take place at locations across the United States. Exact times, dates, and locations are available by calling 1-800-417-9647
When you adopt, you will be required to sign a contract-Private Maintenance and Care Agreement-agreeing to provide humane care and treatment for each animal you adopt.
After one year, you'll be eligible for clear title to you animal.
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