After Racing: Retraining Thoroughbreds

Well, the good thing about being a foster home is that there are always horses in need.  With the ending of Roxie's chapter as one of my foster horses, a new chapter was started yesterday with the arrival of two very woolly geldings, Sunny Thoughts and Friendly Neighbor.  Both are exracers who retired in 2007 and were, to my knowledge, pretty much made into pasture pets.  In addition, both have pretty decent conformation and are big bodied, big boned (and more importantly) big-footed fellows.  My initial thought is that they will make good hunters or possibly eventers.  They're very sweet and seem to be well mannered.  I'm looking forward to getting to know them a little bit more. 

It was a bittersweet day on Saturday when Roxie, who was undoubtedly my favorite of foster horses, left for her new home in the Dayton, OH area. I have every belief that Rachel, Roxie's adopter, is going to give Roxie a fabulous home and life. In fact, I think she's probably the perfect home as she not only has a great support system that is very familiar with Thoroughbreds, but she also has experience with horses who have quirky behaviors or issues (like her ears). I think all is well, but that doesn't mean I don't miss her just a bit. :) Here are a few pictures of Roxie starting life with her new mom!  I'm really looking forward to photos and stories of their experiences together throughout the future.

I'm excited to report that Roxie has a pending adoption! Yay! Her would-be adopter visited this past Friday and despite very cold weather (it was only 7 degrees by 9:30AM), was cheerful and excited about meeting Roxie. Roxie was a very good girl about the whole thing. She was a little anxious and fidgety in the cross ties, but this was a little different than her normal routine. Regardless, after some lunging, she settled right in. I rode her, followed by Rachel (the adopter) and her friend/trainer Lori. Roxie did great and Rachel really seemed to click with her. I think it is going to be a good match!

While it isn't finalized yet, I'm thrilled about it and believe Rachel will provide Roxie with a very good home. Check on the FFI homepage to keep an eye on her status. As of right now, although the board has approved it, the adoption is pending approval of the facility by a local veterinarian. Roxie will be going to an eventing barn SW of Dayton, OH.