Mareworthy Charities has launched Mareworthy Academy, an eight-week program beginning in January and specifically designed to teach aspiring horse owners how to care for horses.
“There's a widespread misconception that horse ownership is only for experienced equestrians or those planning to ride competitively,” says Mareworthy Charities Executive Director Kyle Rothfus. “This limiting belief prevents many compassionate individuals from considering adoption, particularly of retired broodmares who have so much love to give. Through Mareworthy Academy, we're challenging these assumptions and opening doors for people who may have never thought horse ownership was possible for them.”
The program, which is free, focuses on how retired Thoroughbred broodmares can be the right choice as first horses for new owners. The program offers eight weeks of self-guided e-learning with live sessions; four weeks of hands-on volunteer experience; instruction in horse care, health management, and ownership preparation; real-world application of skills at equine non-profits; and a curriculum ranging from basic care to emergency preparedness.
“These magnificent mares have spent their lives nurturing the next generation of racehorses. They deserve retirement with dignity, and many make perfect companions for first-time horse owners who want to provide a loving forever home,” said Rothfus.
“By removing both educational and psychological barriers to horse ownership, we're not just teaching skills–we're expanding the pool of qualified adopters who can provide loving homes to retired broodmares. Our goal is to show that with proper education and support, providing a forever home to a retired broodmare is an achievable and rewarding experience for many people who may have never considered it possible.”
For more information, visit mareworthy.com/academy.
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