Adopt a Mare
Give a Retired Broodmare Her Forever Home
At Mareworthy Charities, we specialize in finding loving forever homes for retired Thoroughbred broodmares. Our comprehensive adoption process ensures the best match between mare and adopter.
Our Adoption Philosophy: Focusing on Forever Homes
At Mareworthy, we take a unique approach to adoption fees. While caring for our retired broodmares costs an average of $793 per month, we don't charge adoption fees. Why? Because we believe the focus should be on providing the best possible forever home for these deserving mares.
Instead of an upfront fee, we ask adopters to:
Demonstrate financial ability to provide quality care
Meet our comprehensive adoption requirements
Commit to regular veterinary and farrier care
Provide updates and photos of their mare's journey
Your decision to adopt opens space in our program for another retired broodmare in need, directly helping us expand our impact. While we don't require an adoption fee, many adopters choose to support our mission through:
One-time donations
Monthly Pasture Pals memberships
Sharing their adoption stories
Volunteering at events
Ready to provide a loving home? Start your adoption journey by viewing our available mares.
Want to support our mission? Visit our donation page to help more mares find their perfect match.
Adoption Process
Submit An Adoption Inquiry
Phone Interview with Mareworthy Representative
Match with Your Perfect Mare
Complete Adoption Agreement
Prepare for Your Mare’s Arrival
Schedule Transportation
Receive Follow Up Support
Provide Regular Updates (1 week, 1 month, 3 months, and then every 6 months)
Schedule annual (minimum) veterinary exam; one exam and Coggins paid by Mareworthy each year
Basic Adoption Requirements
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Financial stability to cover monthly care costs
Adequate property size (minimum 1/2 acre per horse)
Safe, secure fencing in good repair (no barbed wire)
All-weather shelter with minimum 12'x12' space per horse
Clean water source and appropriate feed storage
Established relationship with veterinarian and farrier
Regular veterinary care commitment (annual vaccines, dental, etc.)
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Horse ownership/management experience OR completion of Mareworthy Academy prior to adoption
Understanding of basic equine first aid
Ability to recognize common health issues
Knowledge of proper feeding and nutrition
Experience with medication administration
Basic groundwork and handling skills
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Own property OR have written permission from property owner
Zoning allows for horses
At least one companion horse required
Property located within 300 miles of Mareworthy facility
All-weather access to property for emergency care
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Signed contract agreeing to:
No breeding
No racing
No sale/transfer without Mareworthy approval
Regular updates and photos
Allow post-adoption visits
Return mare to Mareworthy if unable to keep
Commitment to annual vet checks
Willingness to provide end-of-life care when needed
Frequently Asked Questions
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Q: Should I submit an inquiry before I see a mare I like on the website?
A: Yes! We often have mares who never even get listed on the website because we directly reach out to adopters we already know. Submitting an adoption inquiry gets the process started and puts you in line to be notified about available mares.
Q: What area do you serve for adoptions?
A: We primarily serve adopters within a 300-mile radius of Georgetown, Kentucky to ensure we can conduct proper home visits and maintain post-adoption support. Exceptions may be considered for exceptional homes.
Q: Can I adopt if I don't own my property?
A: Yes, with written permission from your property owner and proof of long-term lease agreement or boarding agreement. The property must meet all our requirements for fencing, shelter, and horse-keeping zoning.
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Q: What are the typical monthly costs of caring for a retired broodmare?
A: Our average monthly cost in Central Kentucky is $793, which includes:
Quality hay and feed
Monthly farrier care
Routine veterinary care
Basic supplies
Additional expenses may include medications and emergency care.
Q: Do the mares have any special care requirements?
A: As retired broodmares, most of our horses are seniors (16+ years) who may require:
Senior feed programs
Regular dental care
Joint supplements
Careful weight management
Extra attention during weather changes
Specific needs vary by individual mare.
Q: Can adopted mares be ridden?
A: Some mares may be suitable for riding, but most are best suited as companions. Each mare's capabilities are clearly listed in their profile. Our focus is on providing peaceful retirement homes.
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Q: What are the minimum requirements for adopting?
A: Key requirements include:
Prior horse experience or willingness to complete Mareworthy Academy
Adequate fencing and shelter
Established veterinary/farrier relationships
Financial stability for care costs
Companion horse
Regular care commitment
Q: Why don't you charge adoption fees?
A: We prioritize finding the best homes over collecting fees. Our focus is on ensuring adopters can commit their resources to providing excellent care for their new mare. Donations are welcome but not required.
Q: Can I adopt if I have other horses?
A: Yes! In fact, we require adopters to have at least one other horse or companion animal. We'll evaluate the compatibility of your current horses during the adoption process.
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Q: What support do you provide after adoption?
A: We offer:
Regular check-ins
Ongoing support and advice
Resource recommendations
Emergency assistance if needed
Network of experienced adopters
Q: What if I can no longer care for my adopted mare?
A: Our adoption contract requires the mare to be returned to Mareworthy if you can no longer provide care. We maintain this policy to ensure our mares always have a safety net.
Q: Can I breed my adopted mare?
A: No. All our mares are adopted as retirement companions only, and breeding is strictly prohibited in our adoption contract.
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Q: How do I start the adoption process?
A: Begin by:
Reviewing the minimum adoption requirements (above)
Viewing our available mares
Completing the adoption inquiry form (above)
Q: Can I meet the mares before deciding?
A: Yes! We encourage multiple visits to ensure a good match. Visits are scheduled by appointment.
Q: What if I have more questions?
A: Contact us at info@mareworthy.com or (859) 212-9118. We're happy to discuss our program and help you find the perfect mare match.