Is adopting a retired Thoroughbred racehorse a smart thing to do?

Answer 1

Absolutely, however if you are not an experienced rider or cannot afford to work with someone who can help you with this horse if you are lacking in experience a thoroughbred is not a wise choice. I'm not saying it cannot be done but being over mounted is really no fun. Depending on how fit ( right off the track) the horse is you will have to give him some time to let down and in essence calm down. If you are getting a horse from Rerun or the Exceller Foundation (TRF) they will be already let down and had some retraining so these people should be able to help match you up to a horse that will be able to do what you are interested in doing as well as match your riding abilities. Good Luck. There is nothing better than a thoroughbred in my opinion.

Answer 2

There aren't any typical 'cons' because every off the track horse has been under circumstances, like how long they've raced, how they were raised, everything. I previously rode at a trail riding yard where there was excess of 30 Standardbreds, not one was the same. Some were a little nutty but others you could have put a child on as soon as they came in off the track. I now own a TB who was prepped for racing but was never raced, I have to admit he's a little more zippy than any of the Standardbreds. But he's a sweetheart, nonetheless. One major difference I do notice between OTT-SB's and TB's; The Standardbreds are a generally more docile breed. Their basic ground manners are a lot better because while they're being harnessed for racing, there's no walking around or carrying on of any sort unlike while a jockey is mounting a TB. They've also worn every type of gear imaginable so sacking out is already half done. Cantering really isn't an issue for SB's if you know how to fix it, they just need a trustful relationship. So in my opinion, if you're after something a little more flashy with pizazz go for a TB. If you're looking for something a little more chilled out and easy going a SB is the way to go. Either way, expect the unexpected with OTT horses :-) -- Please Barefoot, don't use one bad racing stables as an ambassador for the rest. Every racehorse in my area (and surrounding) are treated like kings. I've never seen a chain in any of their mouths, more like halters completely lined with lambswool. My experience with racehorses is also behind the scenes, nothing nasty goes on whatsoever. Sure they could have their mouths pulled off on the track but I'd like to see how an Olympic dressage horse goes on a trail ride.

Answer 3

Oh yes it is. I have seen thing on the internet that when the retire a racehorse that they send them to a slaughter house because they are either worthless or sterile (they aren't good breeding or mare is sterile too.) Keep in mind to that since they are retired they think that they can be fussy and just plain rowdy. Most racehorses just want a life in the pasture with no disturbances or people riding him/her because they have had jockeys on their back their whole lives. Personally I think it would be awesome to have a horse no-matter what the breed or size, but since I am in the city I can't have a horse. Best of luck to you and the racehorse.

Answer 4

These can be wonderful horses with many many years of rewarding activity ahead of them. Make sure that the horse you choose is appropriate for your experience as this thoroughbred will likely be VERY fit and therefore even more spirited than the average Thoroughbred. Many of the younger race horses can need a period of a few months of "turnout time" to chill out a little before you start retraining them to whatever discipline you choose. Also, as with any horse, you will want to have your vet check the horse out before you adopt just to have an idea of any preexisting conditions or racing related injuries. These horses often go on to become loving and trusting champions in many disciplines. Your patience, consistency, and time will reward you in the end.

Answer 5

Personally I'd only recommend getting an ex-racehorse if you are a experienced with horses. Despite things propl on here have said, most thorougbreds ARE highly strung and fractious and it takes an experienced person to know how to deal with this.

If you are looking for a riding horse I am sure there must be some charities in your area that take in and retrain ex-racehorses, why not look around.

Here in GB we have charities such as Moorcroft and Greatwood that specialise in taking in ex-racehorses and retraining them before reho,ing them with a new owner.

Horses, regardless of breed, are expensive to keep. Even if the horse is living out in the field he will still need to see the farrier every 6 weeks, be wormed every 8 weeks and see the vet on a regular basis. On top of that you will need insurance to protect against huge vet bills, as well as the regular food he will need to eat. Please only consider taking on a horse if you are sure you have the money.

Answer 6

You can purchase Thoroughbreds who have been retrained for trail riding or jumping from any number of quality retirement facilities in the U.S. Refer to the ReRun website for information....it is as good a start as any.

Answer 7

If you are an experienced horsewomen, then yes!

I plan on adopting one as soon as I have enough experience and am a proficient rider. And of course when I can afford a horse :)

Answer 8

As a really expensive hobby sure but horses are a serious financial drain. You have to be willing to put in the time and the resources. Personally I would just get a dog, less expensive.

Answer 9

I dont see why not, some are high strung but when properly acclimated make fine riding pets...good luck

Answer 10

yes it is, and in fact, there have been great sires and mares who wasn´t very good in races but had great descendants.