Nevada Seeks New Homes for Captured Wild Horses

The Nevada Department of Agriculture is reaching out to residents interested in adopting wild horses captured in the Virginia Range near Reno. This initiative aims to find permanent homes for these majestic animals while addressing public safety concerns.

Adoption Process and Commitment

Deniz Bolbol, communications director for the "Return To Freedom - American Wild Horse Conservation (formerly American Wild Horse Preservation Campaign)," which manages the adoptions, stated that 15 horses have been rounded up and are currently housed at the Carson City prison. Bolbol emphasized that owning a horse is a long-term commitment.

"Really, we're looking for just homes that are going to provide 'forever home' - a home that is going to be there with these horses through thick and thin for the rest of the horses' lives," she said.

Several of the horses have been "halter-broke," meaning they can be haltered and led around. At least two of the animals have been saddled. There are several foals and yearlings, and the rest of the animals are likely between 5 and 8 years of age.

Public Safety and Preservation Efforts

According to the Agriculture Department, the horses are captured after posing a public safety concern, often wandering into inhabited areas that were historically part of their natural range. Bolbol mentioned that the Return to Freedom organization is negotiating with the state to preserve horse ranges while protecting public interests.

"To keep the horses on the range, but at the same time keeping the horses out of areas that the Department of Agriculture doesn't want the horses going into, such as neighborhoods," she said. "We're working to secure that cooperative agreement with the state of Nevada as we speak."

Cost and Considerations

Adopting a wild horse from the state costs $125, but Bolbol noted that this is likely the least expensive aspect of ownership. Prospective adopters should consider additional costs such as shoeing, feeding, training, and veterinary expenses. Nevada's wild horse population could be as high as 10,000 animals.

For more information on horse adoption, visit returntofreedom.org.

Originally posted by Public News Service-NV.