New VocationsRacehorse Adoption Program

New Vocations deals with the socialization of new arrivals on a daily basis. Horses that are accustomed to living in a stall and having no physical contact with another horse are suddenly touching each other between the bars and eventually turned out together. This socialization must be handled with care in order to avoid injuries and stress related complications.

A new horse entering a resident herd will be chased and bullied by even the meekest of the group. If the newcomer lacks confidence, is very young, or geriatric it is at grave risk of injury, malnutrition, or dehydration due to the competition from the herd.

The first step to minimize conflict and facilitate acceptance is to turn the new horse out with an individual pulled from the group. Let these two bond for a few days before introducing them into the herd as a pair. When just a few horses are involved, it’s even better if the new horse and its buddy bond in the main field while the other horses are moved to a different paddock. When the final merger takes place the residence horses are moving into the new arrival’s turf. This gives the new comer added confidence and bolster’s his image in the group.

Segregating mares and geldings eliminates much emotional turmoil and lessens separation anxiety. With one to three horses this may not be preferable, but in larger groups its best.

Geldings that have been on anabolic steroids often exhibit stallion like behavior for several months following the end of medication. These can be self-destructive if not carefully monitored when turned out. They will often walk the fence incessantly, frantically calling to other horses. This results in weight loss and aggravates injuries.

As the hormones wear off the horse may be turned out with geldings, but contact with mares should be avoided for at least three months.