Horse & Herd Helpers Guidance
Whether you are seeking a temporary foster or are temporarily offering to foster animals on your property, take the time to prepare yourself and your animals. We have gathered some great resources, but they are not exhaustive, and we recommend that you practice due diligence before you take on the responsibility of caring for another’s animals or trusting the care of yours with a kind-hearted herd helper.
Important questions to consider whether you are offering animal shelter or seeking it:
Do you currently own any horses or farm animals?
If you have other farm animals, do you have adequate facilities to quarantine your foster and feed them separately?
What type of fencing do you have?
Will your foster be kept in a barn or pasture?
What do you feed your current equines? How frequently?
Who is responsible for feeding?
What vaccinations has your equine received?
Is your up-to-date vaccination documentation easily accessible and ready to share?
What is your deworming protocol?
How often are your equine’s feet trimmed?
Whose farrier, vet, etc.. will be used and how will the costs be shared/divided?
Who will be responsible for evacuating the animals?
Useful Tips
Have both parties sign Liability Release forms
Use separate housing, if possible, and separate feed and feeding areas and water sources.
Minimize stress as much as possible by providing clean, dry and comfortable housing with adequate ventilation.
Always tend to newly-added animals last. This will help prevent human cross-contamination.
Helpful Resources
Sonoma County Horse & Herd Helpers Disclaimer: This networking directory is provided as a courtesy to the local equine community. The information and images contained within each profile have been provided by the individual(s) creating the profile. Information and images have not been vetted by the Sonoma County Horse Council and the Council does not endorse or recommend the individuals and businesses participating in this directory. The information contained in this directory is not exhaustive. Users should seek professional advice as appropriate. In no event shall SCHC and its agents, employees, directors and officers be liable for any liability, loss, injury or risk (including, without limitation, incidental and consequential damages, personal injury/wrongful death, lost profits or damages) which is incurred or suffered as a direct or indirect result of the use of any of the material, advice, or guidance in this directory, whether based on warranty, contract, tort, or any other legal theory and whether or not SCHC or any of its agents, employees, directors and officers is advised of the possibility of such damages.
