Wild mustangs up for adoption

| 22 Feb 2012 | 01:43

Augusta, N.J. — The Bureau of Land Management will offer wild mustangs to the public for adoption at the Sussex County Fairgrounds in Augusta, N.J. on Saturday, Sept. 11, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. A preview of the mustangs will be held on Friday, Sept. 10, from 2 to 7 p.m. About 40 animals will be up for adoption on a first come, first served basis, at a cost of $125 for animals less than three-years-old and $25 for animals three-years-old and over. In addition, buyers can take home a buddy animal for only $25 when adopting any animal at the full fee of $125. The event is free of charge and open to the public. Tony Herrell, acting director of land management for the eastern states, said, “Your willingness to give these sure-footed, hard working animals good homes helps protect the western ranges while providing you with an incredible companion.” Wild horses that have been gentled have been trained to participate in western riding events, dressage, and trail riding. New York has a number of equestrian trails in area parks, not to mention private stables located throughout the state. There may be wild burros also available for adoption. The working abilities of these animals far outweigh their reputation for stubbornness. Burros are known to have a calming effect on nervous horses. Aside from being a stable companion, these animals offer sheep and goat protection, halter breaking and pulling plows. “While the adoption process is simple and straightforward, anyone considering adopting a wild horse or burro should remember that the animals are wild and require gentling and training,” Herrell said. All animals available for adoption have been examined by a veterinarian, vaccinated, de-wormed and blood-tested. Since the Adopt-A-Wild Horse and Burro Program began in 1973, more than 235,000 animals have been adopted nationwide. Prospective adopters must have sturdy corrals that are 20’ x 20’ (or larger), at least 6 feet high for an adult horse and at least 5 feet high for burros and horses younger than 18 months, and have a shelter directly attached to the corral. Adopters must provide a stock-type, step up trailer (ramps or split two-horse type trailers are not allowed). The land management staff will halter and load animals onto the adopters’ trailers. For more information on the application process, call 1-866-4MUSTANGS or visit www.wildhorseandburro.blm.gov to download an application.