Prospective Horse Donations

We understand that donating a horse is a deeply personal and important decision. At Detroit Horse Power, we are committed to a process that ensures every horse receives thoughtful consideration that leads the herd we accept to have dedicated care and meaningful purpose within our youth development programs.

Below are answers to common questions horse owners may have about the donation process.

What is Detroit Horse Power?

Detroit Horse Power is a nonprofit organization that partners with horses to help young people build leadership and life skills (perseverance, empathy, confidence, responsible risk taking and self control) through riding and caring for horses.

What type of horses is DHP looking for?

We seek horses that are:

• Between 8-18 years old

• Safe and reliable around people and youth

• Sound enough for light to moderate program work

• Comfortable in a group setting

• Adaptable to beginner or intermediate riders

• Calm, patient, and people-oriented

We consider horses of many breeds, sizes, and backgrounds.

How many days per week will DHP horses be ridden?

The number of days a horse participates in riding lessons varies based on the horse's age, fitness, temperament, and overall program needs. DHP is committed to maintaining the physical and mental well-being of every horse and carefully manages workloads to ensure horses remain healthy, happy, and engaged. Lesson schedules are designed with appropriate rest and recovery time in mind.

What is the age group my horse will work with?

Detroit Horse Power serves youth in Middle and High School, 11-18 years old, through a variety of riding, horsemanship, and leadership programs. Horses may work with participants of varying ages and experience levels depending on their temperament, training, and suitability. Horses will also participate in community events where DHP will aim to educate community members and engage more individuals.

How does the donation process work?

The following steps are included in the process:

• Initial inquiry call

• Complete Intake Form

• Field Evaluation

• DHP Horse Committee makes recommendations

• Veterinary Examination

• Contract & Logistic discussion

How long does the process take?

Detroit Horse Power is currently preparing to open our new facility in January 2027. While we are actively identifying potential horses for our program, physical horse intake and evaluation periods will be limited until the facility is operational.

For horses being considered for donation:

• DHP will conduct an initial intake conversation, review health and training history, visit the horse and complete a veterinary exam and discuss program suitability prior to January 2027.

• Formal trial periods (60 days) will begin once horses are able to move to the DHP facility in January 2027 or thereafter.

• If a horse requires placement before January 2027, DHP will discuss available options with the donor on a case-by-case basis, which may include delaying the donation, identifying a temporary arrangement, or exploring alternative placement solutions.

Our goal is to work collaboratively with each owner to ensure the best outcome for both the horse and the program.

Do you offer a trial period before accepting a horse permanently?

Yes. DHP will accept horses, typically, on a 60-day evaluation period to determine whether the horse is an appropriate fit for our program. That evaluation period will begin once the horse moves into the facility, expected in January 2027.

What happens during the trial period?

During the evaluation period, DHP assesses:

• Temperament and behavior

• Soundness and health

• Suitability for youth programming

• Comfort in a lesson environment

• Handling both on the ground and under saddle

What if the horse is not a good fit during the trial period?

If the horse is not deemed suitable for the program, DHP will coordinate return of the horse to the owner according to the terms outlined in the trial agreement.

What relationship can I have with the horse as a part of Detroit Horse Power’s program?

We understand owners care deeply about their horses and are happy to provide reasonable updates during the evaluation process. If the horse is accepted into the program, we can arrange for continued reasonable updates and visits.

Once a horse is formally donated and ownership is transferred to Detroit Horse Power, the horse becomes part of DHP's program herd and all decisions regarding its care, management, and use are the responsibility of DHP. To ensure consistency in training, management, and program operations, donor riding privileges are generally not available after a horse has been accepted into the program.

We understand that many donors have strong relationships with their horses and welcome opportunities for donors to stay connected through visits, updates, and special events when appropriate. We welcome the opportunity to discuss ongoing tax-deductible donations to support the horse’s care as well as the possibility of the horse returning to the prior owner when they are no longer a fit for DHP’s program.

What health records are required?

We request:

• Vaccination records

• Coggins test

• Veterinary history

• Farrier schedule/history

• Current medications or maintenance needs

Can a horse with maintenance needs still be considered?

Possibly. We evaluate each horse individually and may consider horses with manageable maintenance requirements depending on program suitability and long-term sustainability.

Does DHP provide veterinary care once the horse arrives?

Yes. During the trial period and after acceptance, DHP assumes responsibility for routine care and veterinary management unless otherwise agreed in writing.

Is the horse donation tax-deductible?

Detroit Horse Power is a nonprofit organization, and horse donations may qualify as charitable contributions based on an appraisal by a certified member of The American Society of Equine Appraisers. We recommend consulting a tax professional regarding deductibility and appraisal requirements.

Will I receive documentation of the donation?

Yes. DHP can provide a donation acknowledgment letter for your records.

Do I retain any ownership rights after donation?

No. Once a horse is formally accepted and ownership is transferred, the donation becomes permanent unless otherwise agreed in writing.

Can I place restrictions on how my horse is used?

We are happy to discuss concerns and preferences, though DHP must maintain discretion over program use, management, and future placement decisions.

What happens if my horse retires from the program in the future?

DHP is committed to responsible horse stewardship throughout each horse’s lifecycle. The donor has the right to accept the horse back before other options are identified. Horses that retire or transition out of the program may:

• Be adopted into approved homes

• Move into lighter-duty roles

• Be placed with trusted partner organizations

• Retire in appropriate care settings