I have brought many, many babies from the meat dealer, because they are the only ones I could afford. I know there are so many rescues that need help. Here is one of them I follow, but never have enough dollars to share. http://www.omegahorserescue.com/
As I make plans to own my first horse, the reality of the time commitment sinks in. Then I read about rescues and it seems like one the most important things I could do with my life.
I'm glad these horses were adopted but I think slaughter is a viable option. Not everybody has the money to care for a horse that can't do anything but sit in a pasture and eat. The rescues where I live are ridiculous with their demands. If you adopt from them, you can't show the horse, you must have it vet checked every 6 months, they have to inspect your farm, and they don't want you to actually ride the horse at all. More people would adopt if it wasn't for stupid regulations like these.