Donating your horse has several benefits: You might be eligible for a tax deduction if the organization is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. Under IRS rules, if you value your horse at $5,000 or more you must have an independent appraisal. Depending on the contract, you may have some control over the future of your horse and your horse will be with people that understand horses.

Again, just because they say they are something or they will do something doesn't mean it's true. Get a contract and check, double check and check again. There are a lot of con artist in the horse world. In other words, "Trust but verify."

Most places only want sound horses. Finding a lifetime home for a permanently injured or sick horse is almost impossible unless you are willing to pay for his upkeep.

The following are places that might accept your horse:

State & National Rescue Links

Therapeutic Riding Centers
NetPets Texas Therapeutic Riding Center Listing
North American Riding For The Handicapped Association Centers (Highly recommended)
Great Strides Therapeutic Riding Center Links

Horse Clubs
Horse Clubs abound in Texas. While they cannot take your horse, they might be able to lead you to someone within their membership that will take excellent care of your friend. If you decide to go this route, understand that there is no tax deduction and any contract you make will depend on the honesty of the other party. Check and verify everything.

Texas State and Local Horse Clubs
Horse Gazette - Texas Horse Clubs

Equine Sanctuaries
Few places can take your horse and keep it for the rest of its life for free. When they are perfectly healthy, horses cost between $5 and $10 per day to maintain, if done properly. Beyond that is the cost of the facility, equipment, insurance, supplies, taxes and labor. When you contact a sanctuary, expect to pay an initial cost and possibly a continued maintenance amount.

Habitat for Horses, Inc.
While not the perfect setting, with rolling hills and acres of thick grass, we do provide a loving home with complete medical care. Cost is dependent upon the life expectancy of the horse. See Sanctuary Donations for more details.

The Fund For Animals: Black Beauty Ranch
Has an excellent reputation. Highly recommended. One of the largest in the U.S.

Redwings Horse Sanctuary
Another perfect place in California. Houses around 90 horses.

Ryerss Farm for Aged Equines
The country's oldest retirement farm for aged equines.

Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation
For ex-racehorses. Excellent program and facility.

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