Adopting or purchasing a wild horse or burro from the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is a rewarding experience, allowing these magnificent animals to find loving homes and continue their lives in various roles. Whether you’re interested in competitive riding, companionship, or work, understanding the requirements is crucial for a successful adoption. The BLM has established clear guidelines to ensure the well-being of these animals and the suitability of their new environments.
Minimum Requirements for Adoption
To adopt a wild horse or burro, applicants must meet several fundamental criteria to ensure responsible ownership. Firstly, the applicant must be at least 18 years old. Secondly, the adopted animal must remain within the United States until it is officially titled, which occurs one year after the adoption date. Crucially, applicants must have no prior convictions for inhumane treatment of animals or violations of the Wild Free-Roaming Horses & Burros Act.
A significant requirement is the provision of a suitable facility that offers adequate feed, water, and shelter. This facility can include corrals or barns. It’s important to note that the facility approval is based on the enclosure’s height and security, not just pasture fence height, especially for ungentled animals. A 5-foot-high facility is generally required for yearlings or gentled horses of any age, while ungentled horses two years or older need a 6-foot-high facility. Burros of any age require a 4 ½-foot high facility. Specific shelter requirements vary by state and region to mitigate the effects of weather extremes, ranging from natural cover or a single-sided structure in milder climates to a two- or three-sided shelter with a roof in more severe weather areas. Some northern states may also require a heated water source.
Furthermore, adopters must possess a stock or horse trailer with a rear-swing gate and a covered top. While three-horse slant trailers are acceptable if dividers are removed or folded back, trailers with drop ramps or single-horse trailers are not permitted. Two-horse trailers may be approved on a case-by-case basis.
The Adoption and Purchase Process
If you meet the adoption qualifications, you can either complete the Adoption/Sale Application and mail it to the appropriate BLM office or utilize the online Internet Adoption Application for Internet Adoption events via the Online Corral. The BLM will inspect trailers to ensure the safe and humane transport of the animal.
When selecting an animal, it is vital not to base your decision on appearance alone. Consider your intended use for the horse or burro, as these animals can excel in many disciplines. Wild horses have achieved success in dressage, jumping, barrel racing, and endurance riding, while burros are well-suited for packing, driving, and as companion animals. They are known for their sure-footedness, intelligence, and endurance.
Transportation of adopted animals is limited to 24 hours without a stop for food, water, and rest, requiring corrals that meet minimum facility standards. Journeys crossing state lines may necessitate checking for additional state-specific requirements. The BLM will verify your facilities during the application review and require you to sign a Private Maintenance and Care Agreement, affirming your intent not to sell the animal for slaughter or commercial processing.
For those interested in purchasing a wild horse or burro, an Application to Purchase Wild Horses and Burros can be submitted. A sample bill of sale is available for review, and inquiries can be directed to the Wild Horse and Burro Program.
Locations and Limits for Adoption/Purchase
Wild horses and burros can be adopted or purchased from BLM off-range corrals, through online auctions, or at various adoption and purchase events held across the United States. Individuals can receive title for up to four wild horses within a 12-month period, though more can be adopted with title granted later. For purchases, individuals and groups can acquire up to four animals in a six-month period. Purchases exceeding this limit require special approval and a detailed proposal outlining care plans and intended use.
Costs and Health
The minimum adoption or purchase fee for an untrained wild horse or burro is $25, though competitive bidding events may have higher fees. The Adoption Incentive Program offers a fee of $125, and trained or gentled animals start at a minimum of $125. All BLM-offered animals are vaccinated, dewormed, freeze-marked, and receive necessary veterinary care, including a negative Coggins test. A record of the animal’s medical history will be provided. Payment can be made via cash, check, money order, or credit card. It is recommended to bring a suitable halter and lead rope for each animal.
Titling and Care
Ownership of an adopted wild horse or burro transfers to the adopter once the BLM issues a Certificate of Title, typically one year after adoption. This process involves a signed statement from a qualified individual verifying humane care and treatment, confirmed by an in-person examination of the animal’s condition, hooves, and overall health. For purchased animals, a Bill of Sale immediately relinquishes federal ownership, and no Certificate of Title is issued.
The BLM provides resources such as the Wild Horse and Burro Care and Feed Guide to assist adopters with proper care. Information on understanding and decoding freeze marks is also available. The BLM also offers a public dashboard for accessing data related to the Wild Horse and Burro Program activities.
