“These horses are so intelligent and intuitive; they have so much to offer in second careers. It is the ultimate betrayal if they are thrown away when their racing careers are over.”
This comes from Delaware Park trainer Beverly Strauss, who in 2002 co-founded MidAtlantic Horse Rescue (MAHR) with fellow horsewoman Virginia Cole in response to the concern of slaughter. The pair had saved at-risk Thoroughbreds on their own for years and then set up MAHR in an effort to do even more.
Launched initially with three rescued off-the-track Thoroughbreds and a rented five-acre field, the program today hosts more than 45 horses at its main 158-acre farm in the hills of eastern Maryland, plus another 40 plus at three satellite farms in Maryland and Delaware.
This growth has been made possible by the support of TAA and other groups in the racing industry and has been spurred by MAHR’s stellar reputation and successful retraining and adoption program. The horses are in different stages of rehab and retraining, and available horses can be seen and tried by appointment.
Since its inception, MAHR has helped save, transition, and place more than 3,000 former racehorses of all ages and abilities. MAHR takes horses from tracks in the MidAtlantic Region, working closely with Maryland’s Beyond the Wire program and handling aftercare at Delaware Park in partnership with the track, owners, trainers, and CANTER Delaware. MAHR still does buy at-risk Thoroughbreds from auctions and feedlots but are grateful that the racing industry is more focused on safe retirement, reducing (but not eliminating) the risk to these horses when they are done running.
Horses are rehabbed as needed and all necessary veterinary, farrier, and dental work is provided. Horses are evaluated under saddle and schooled until adopted out as sport or pleasure horses. MAHR also has horses available as pasture pets and companions. This year we are launching Stablemates, an equine assisted learning program, using our pasture pets to provide enrichment for community members and horses alike, while in turn helping to prepare our horses for new homes.
Adoption fees are well below market value, up to approximately $2,500 for a sound horse with no restrictions, and ownership is transferred upon adoption. Safety and suitability are of the utmost importance when matching horses and adopters. Adopters have ranged in age from 9 to 70 and have included beginners and amateurs as well as top professionals.
MAHR was one of a few programs to be selected to participate in the initial $1 million ASPCA Rescuing Racers Initiative. In addition, MAHR has received support from Thoroughbred Charities of America every year since 2002.
Tax-deductible donations of any amount are greatly appreciated, while tack, equipment, office supplies, and gift cards are always on the wish list. Visitors are welcome by appointment to tour the farm and meet the horses.
