Horse lovers looking for a chance to rescue a horse or burro, and possibly reap a small reward for doing so, can look to the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) for such an opportunity.
The BLM recently announced changes to its Adoption Incentive Program to entice people to care for untrained horses and burros.
“To enhance existing protections for adopted wild horses and burros, we've just announced new changes to the Adoption Incentive Program,” the Bureau stated in a press release. "These changes are part of the BLM's efforts to place animals into good homes.”
One change is that the BLM will require a veterinary check within six months of adoption, the release stated. Upon receiving a passing report, the adopter can receive up to $1,000 to offset the cost of caring for the four-legged animals. The goal is to ensure the animals are properly cared for.
“We have an unwavering commitment to the humane care and placement of America’s wild horses and burros,” Tracy Stone-Manning, BLM Director, said in the release. “By and large, the Adoption Incentive Program has provided the boost people have needed to support their dream of adopting and appropriately caring for a wild horse or burro.”
The financial incentive will come within 60 days of the title date, which is dependent upon a veterinary inspection signed by a vet or a BLM-authorized representative, according to the release. Additionally, the incentive is available for all untrained animals that are eligible for adoption. Most animals are adopted at BLM facilities, off-site events or through the Online Corral. A $125 fee is required at the time of adoption.
More than 235,000 animals have been placed in private care through the BLM program.
