Foster vs adopter - what’s the difference?
Fostering is a way to help the rescue when we have a short term and acute need for space, for instance when we assist with a large law enforcement seizure. A foster home provides a safe space for an equine and allows us to make space on our main farm. However, the rescue is still financially and legally responsible for fostered horses.
Adopting is taking on the responsibility for a horse that directly opens up a space for another horse. When a horse is adopted, ownership is transferred from us to you! We continue to be a resource for you and your adopted equine. We will check in with you and are happy to answer questions or try to problem solve to help you and your adopted equine be successful.
We prefer to have most of our equines at our main farm because it is easier for us to adopt them out from a central location and adoption is our primary goal. We reach out to fosters on an as needed basis and are appreciative of those who are willing to open their barns, fields, and hearts to help.
If you are interested in helping equines by short term stays on your farm as they transition to their new homes, please reach out to Colleen Winkelman at execassistant@hopeslegacy.com.
Foster or adopt?
If you’re not sure weather you want to foster or adopt, consider the following:
Are you looking for an equine companion to be a friend to my current equine(s)?
Adoption! Fostering does not guarantee your equine a companion as these are temporary placements. Adoption allows your equine to have a companion that will stay with them.
Are you interested in a specific equine?
Adoption! While we ask fosters for types of horses they can or cannot house (gelding/mare/stallion, temperament, health issues etc.), fosters do not select specific equines they see on our website.
Do you have space for an equine which you can offer for temporary stays?
Fostering! If you are interested in offering equine(s) temporary space and getting to know several different equines, fostering may be for you.
Are you wanting to help horses find their forever home?
Fostering (or volunteering)! Fosters are invested in getting the horses they help into their permanent homes. They talk up their equine visitor to their friends and community, take cute pictures, and communicate regularly with staff.