Rescue and Retirement Guidelines

Recognizing the importance of equine rescue and retirement facilities, the AAEP has developed care guidelines in order to provide guidance about the care of a horse throughout its life. While principles of basic horse care and management apply to all horses regardless of their situation, those horses entering rescue or retirement facilities may arrive with unique health challenges. For these reasons, employees and volunteers should understand and appreciate basic horse care as well as be able to recognize health conditions that may require medical attention from a veterinarian.

Because appropriate horse care practices may vary due to climate, region, use and many other factors, the guidelines are intentionally broad. For answers to specific questions, owners, employees, and volunteers at rescue and retirement facilities are encouraged to consult their veterinarians.