Frequently Asked Questions about Rehoming

Do you rehome all over the country or is there a rehoming area?

HorseWorld has a rehoming radius of 1hr30min drive from the yard based in South Bristol, meaning we only rehome to loaners within this zone. We will consider loaners just out of area if we have other loan ponies nearby, but cannot rehome to anyone too far out of this radius due to ongoing Home Visits performed by our team. If unsure, please email us your postcode and we will confirm this for you.

Do I need to be a certain age to be able to rehome?

We have a minimum age requirement of 18 years old to be able to sign our loan agreement and rehome one of our horses.

How long does the rehoming process usually take?

The length of time it takes to rehome a horse from us varies a lot depending on the horse’s situation and the new loaners situation. Some horses require a lot more preparation for rehoming, which may delay the process slightly (such as loading practice etc), whereas others may be ready to go and therefore may be rehomed slightly quicker. Therefore we cannot put an exact time frame on how long the process will take, but usually it will be over a few weeks. If you are in a position where you need a companion urgently, we do our best to make the process as quick as possible.

Who has ownership of the equine whilst it is on loan?

HorseWorld remains the legal owner of the equine for the duration of the loan. Please see our loan agreement term and conditions here.

Can I keep my HorseWorld horse/pony on its own?

All horses and ponies on loan must have equine companionship in the same paddock. At HorseWorld, we have a policy against keeping animals on their own as mixing with other horses helps to promote natural behaviours in the equine. They must, for at least a portion of everyday, be turned out with their companion.

What will be expected of me as a HorseWorld horse loaner?

As a loaner, you will be responsible for the general upkeep and wellbeing of the equine. At a minimum, it is compulsory that you keep your HorseWorld equine up to date with the dentist, vaccinations, farrier, and worming. The loaner is responsible for all costs relating to this and day to day costs of keeping the horse.

Do you charge a fee for the horse?

Yes. For a companion-only we suggest a donation, and for anything other than a companion we charge a set fee. The individual cost of each equine can be found on their rehoming profile. This is non-refundable.

Will the horse come with any equipment?

No, we do not rehome our horses with any headcollars, rugs, tack etc (unless agreed separately) so when you are collecting your loan horse please bring suitable equipment for travelling the horse (headcollar and lead rope, hay net, tail bandage if needed etc). Our team are happy to advise on sizing, what we normally use, and what you will need to bring with you etc.

How often do you carry out Home Visits?

Our first visit will be roughly 4-6 weeks after the equine has gone on loan, and then the duration between visits will be determined by our Loan Home Visitor.

What should I expect at Home Visits?

Home visits are simply carried out to make sure both you, the loaner, and the horse are happy and doing well. Visits usually last around 30 minutes, and will consist of a general check of the animal (weight, key dates for farrier, vaccinations etc) and we ask that the equine’s passport is available at all visits. We discuss the home visit form and procedure with all potential loaners before they take a horse on loan to make them fully aware of how the process works.

Do I need to take out insurance for my loan horse?

Yes. The loaner is responsible for taking out insurance that, at a minimum, must cover 3rd party insurance.

Can I return my loan horse if my circumstances change?

We try to rehome on a permanent basis and to loaners willing to take on this commitment. However, if the horse or pony does not settle, or if there is a change in circumstances, loan horses and ponies will always have a home at HorseWorld and can always be returned. Information about our Returns Procedure is provided in our loan packs.

What if I’m having problem with my loan pony in between home visits?

Contact us! We’re always at the end of the phone if you need any help/advice and are always happy to help.

Can I move my loan pony to another yard?

Yes of course, as long as we are notified first. We must carry out a check of the new location to ensure it is safe and suitable for the horse before they are moved. Please contact your home visitor/our Rehoming department should you need to move your loan horse.