What is the adoption process at HLER?
First you complete an application through our website (see the left of this screen or our Horses page). Then the adoption team will process your application by reviewing the information provided and calling your references. They will inform you if your application is approved or not approved. It is possible to not be approved for the specific equine you may be interested in, but be approved for others. We try to find the best matches for our adopters and equines so that both have the best chance at a happy life together.
After you have an approved application, the adoption team will work with you on finding potential good fits or if there is an equine you are already interested in, they will help you coordinate a visit. Some horses are at our primary farm in Afton and some are located at foster homes or training facilities. In these visits, we can all get a chance to know each other more and see how you get along with the equine you are interested in taking home!
How long does it take for applications to be processed?
We try to process your applications as quickly as possible, between 1-2 weeks. Currently, HLER is mostly volunteers and occassionally this process takes longer. If you are concerned or have any questions, please email adoptions@hopeslegacy.com.
It helps if you advise your references that we will be calling them and it may be unfamiliar and out of state numbers. We will always leave a voicemail for them.
I met the equine and love them, I am ready to adopt! Now what?
Wonderful! If you decide you want to adopt first tell the adoption team and then schedule a date within two weeks to have the equine transported by us (we offer trailering services for $2/mile one way) or to pick up the equine. On this date, we will complete ownership transfer of the equine to you by signing the adoption contract and collecting the adoption fee.
During this time, we will consider the equine as “Pending Adoption” and not make them available to others.
can i adopt an equine the same day i meet them?
Yes! If you are fairly sure you are going to adopt an equine the day you visit and you have a trailer, you are welcome to bring a trailer to save yourself a trip. We know that some adopters come from far away and this is helpful for them. If you are planning on potentially adopting the same day, please let us know so we can make sure to have the paperwork ready.
Can i put a hold on a specific equine?
If you’re not ready to complete an adoption, you may place an equine on hold for 10 days with a non-refundable fee of $100. This hold fee supports the extra days of housing, staffing, and care needed and will be applied toward the adoption of the equine. Only one hold may be placed on an animal at a time and you may not place a hold on an equine you have not met. All adoption holds must be done in person.
How do i get my equine to their new home?
If you have a trailer and would like to transport your new equine yourself you are welcome to do so! You are welcome to coordinate your trailering however you like (with a service, a friend, etc.)
If you need us to transport your new equine, we offer trailering for $2/mile one way (from our farm/foster to their new home).