Donate a Horse

REINS Therapy Horses play a significant role when it comes to inspiring positive change in the lives of our riders. Most of our herd has been donated! Without people in the community donating exceptional horses, we would be unable to operate. REINS serves around 180 riders, with the assistance of over 120 volunteers each week. Serving our riders can be mentally and physically stressful for our equine therapists, therefore it is essential that our horses have a solid work ethic, enjoy people, are healthy and sound. A great therapy horse is sound at the walk, trot, and canter, with three rhythmic and balanced gaits. The quality of the horse’s movement is most important for the participant. Other qualities we require include varied life experience, a quiet personality, and at least four years of age. Our riders have a very wide range of special needs, and our herd must be varied to meet those needs. The specific qualities we are seeking in a horse can change depending upon the current demands of our program.

If you donate your horse to REINS you can be assured that your horse will receive exceptional care, unlimited love, constant attention, and unwavering appreciation. And you will have the deep satisfaction of knowing that you are helping to make a profound difference in the lives of our students.

Does Your Horse Have What it Takes to be a Therapy Horse?

Answer the questions below. If you answer more true than false, your horse might have the “Right Stuff” to succeed at a second career as a therapy horse. Please review the list below, and then fill out the google form at the bottom of this section.  Contact Grace or Nikki at 760-731-9168 or [email protected] or [email protected]  if you have any questions.  Thanks for thinking of REINS!

  • My horse is physically sound, and does not have any major health related problems.
  • My horse tolerates two people working on both sides simultaneously.
  • My horse has some level of professional training.
  • My horse can tolerate loud noises and does not startle easily.
  • My horse can maintain his cool when startled by moving objects.
  • My horse can handle uneven weight on his back.
  • If a rider becomes unbalanced, my horse will stop and wait for the rider to regain control.
  • My horse is comfortable with strangers and enjoys the company of humans.
  • My horse is sociable and good with other horses
Donation Form