Horse Illustrated Magazine

Q: What does KyEHC do?
A: The KyEHC accepts any equine from the state of Kentucky that needs to be surrendered. We are not a sanctuary or retirement facility. If the horses are considered to be adoptable after they’ve been assessed, we advertise them for adoption and try to find permanent homes for them.

Q: What are your adoption fees?
A: The adoption fees vary depending on the horse’s age, soundness, and capabilities. They vary from $50.00 to $500.00.

Q: Do you have any horses suitable for young children?
A: On occasion we will receive a horse that is suitable for a young child with little experience, but they are few and far between.

Q: Do you have the room to take any more horses, and what is your capacity?
A: Yes. We have an open-door policy, so no equine is turned away. We can accommodate 50 horses at all times, and when we are full, we do humanely euthanize to make room for horses that need to be surrendered.

Q: How do I become a volunteer?
A: All volunteers must attend a volunteer orientation and complete an application. Orientations are held on the second Saturday of each month, but we can make special arrangements for those who cannot attend the scheduled orientation days. The KyEHC does not have an age requirement for volunteers, but if you are under 16 years old, you must have an adult with you at all times while you are volunteering.

Q: How can I help the organization if I can’t donate any money?
A: You can always volunteer your time or host a special project to raise funds for the KyEHC.  You can visit our special projects page on our website and choose from one of the listed projects, or submit an application to create your own.

Q: Do you accept any donations of used items?
A: Yes. We accept any used items that are useable and in fairly good condition.

Q: What are your current donation needs?
A: Please visit our website and view our wish list of items that we currently need. This list is updated frequently.

Q: Do you know of anyone who can help out with my vet bills?
A: No. Unfortunately, the KyEHC does not have the ability to help individuals with their own equine needs. You can contact your local horse council or department of agriculture, to find any organizations in your area that may be able to provide assistance.

Q: What do I need to do to surrender a horse?
A: There are four requirements for surrendering a horse:
 1. The horse must have a current negative Coggins test.
 2. The owner of the horse must complete a KyEHC surrender form.
 3. The owner is responsible for the horse’s transportation to the KyEHC.
 4. The owner must contact the KyEHC to schedule a day and time for the horse to be  surrendered.

Q: What happens to the horse(s) once they are surrendered to KyEHC?
A: Each horse is given a complete physical examination to determine his overall health and emotional state. If the horse is physically and mentally suitable for adoption, then every attempt is made to find him a home.

Q: How do you report animal/equine abuse?
A: You can contact your local animal control office or humane society. If you don’t have one of these organizations in your area, you should contact your local law enforcement agency. Give them as much information as possible; you can remain anonymous if you choose. Make sure you follow up with the agency to find out what action has been taken, and if the situation has been resolved.

Q: Where can I make a donation? Can I make the donation in memory of or in honor of another person or animal?
A: Donations can be made on the website using a credit card, or by mail. Yes, you can make donations in honor of or in memory of another person or animal. An acknowledgement will be sent to the person or family you are making the donation for.

Q: Can I come out and visit the horses?
A: Yes. You can come out on Adoption Days/Open House Days, which are held every third Saturday of the month from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. 

Q: If I decide to adopt a horse, can I come out and ride the horse beforehand?
A: No. We do not allow adopters to ride the horses due to liability reasons. We will have one of our staff members ride the horse while you are here so you can observe the horse under saddle.

Q: What are your adoption requirements?
A: You can review the adoption requirements on our website as well as download and print an application form online.

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