We are committed to making the best possible match between horse and rider. We represent our horses as accurately as possible by our experience with them, but as experienced handlers, we are often able to easily handle a behavior that an adopter may not. Adopters need to realize that no single horse is ever perfect, and it is the responsibility of the Adopter to determine if the horse is appropriate for their ability and experience. We do stand behind our horses, but cannot foresee all future circumstances. We expect Adoptive families to have weighed  the decision to adopt heavily, that they are fully aware of the unforseen expenses potential with horse ownership, and that they are committed to the horse of their choice.  If you run into a problem with your new horse, we expect that you will pursue any and all options to continue to provide the horse with a good home, including training for the horse, or yourself, to overcome a problem.  If you do encounter a situation where you feel you can no longer provide the proper home for your adopted horse, call us and we will work together towards a solution that will work for all involved--- most of all, the horse! 

It is the goal of Gentle Giants Draft Horse Rescue to successfully place each horse in a loving long term home.   

If you are interested in adopting, you will need to follow these steps:

    1.  You must call to schedule an appointment to meet and ride the horse that you are interested in adopting. We encourage adopters to take their time, as the interaction is an opportunity to observe the compatibility of both horse and rider. Please be certain you are committed to your appointment time, and are seriously interested in the horse you wish to meet. We are staffed by a very small volunteer base, all of which also work full-time and have families to maintain!

    2.  If the adopter and the horse are compatible, an Adoption Application must be completed and returned to Gentle Giants Draft Horse Rescue. Applications will not be accepted if the adopter has not been evaluated with the horse, or if the prospective adopter was not found suitable for the horse. 

    3.  Once the Adoption Application has been received, Gentle Giants Draft Horse Rescue will contact the references provided and may schedule a visit to the facility where the horse will be kept. It is acceptable for an adopted horse to be boarded, providing the facilities and care are adequate.  

    4.  A copy of the Adoption Agreement will be given to the Adoptive family to review.  The terms of Adoption are explored in detail in this Agreement. 

    5.  The Board of Directors will meet to determine the home most suitable for the needs of each individual horse and rider.  We regret that we can not reserve a horse for visitation, and all applications for adoption will be considered on a first come, first serve basis. 

    6.  Upon a final descision, the Adoption Agreement must be signed by both parties, and the Adoption Fee must be paid in full.  Adoption Fees are non-refundable and facilitate the rescue and rehabilitation of future horses from slaughter.  Adoption fees will not be returned, even in the event the horse is returned to Gentle Giants for re-adoption.   

Gentle Giants Barn Rules

1.  All riders must have long pants, and closed toed heeled boots or riding shoes. No riding is permitted in shorts or tennis shoes. 

2.  Allow enough time to groom, tack, and untack your horse.  Our volunteers will be there to help with anything should you have a problem or question, but we do want to see how you interact with and handle the adoptive horse. 

3.  Please do not bring children with you to your appointment, unless the adoptive horse is intended for the child.  If you are bringing a guest, please let us know in advance. 

6.  No smoking in the barn.

7.  Please do not bring pets to the farm.  Our dogs unfortunately do not enjoy sharing their space.