FOSTERING

Whether a Standardbred comes directly from the racetrack or from a situation where extra care is needed, every horse deserves a safe place to land. Fostering provides that bridge; a temporary but life-changing role that prepares horses for their forever homes.

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What Fostering Means

Fostering is more than opening your barn, it’s opening the door to new possibilities. As a foster, you provide daily care, stability, and companionship, helping each horse adjust to life beyond racing. Some arrive healthy and simply need time to transition. Others may require rest, rehabilitation, or training before they’re ready for adoption. In every case, fostering makes the difference between uncertainty and opportunity.

Why Fostering Matters

Every foster home creates room for another Standardbred in need. By fostering, you’re not just helping one horse, you’re supporting the entire network of aftercare that makes rehabilitation and responsible placement possible. Your care ensures that Standardbreds, whether coming from dedicated owners or from more vulnerable situations, receive the stability and respect they deserve.

Types of Foster Arrangements

We know that not every horse—and not every home—is the same. That’s why New Start offers several fostering options:

Short-Term Fostering – Horses stay up to three months while awaiting adoption or placement. You provide daily care, basic handling, and turnout, while we cover veterinary costs.

Long-Term Fostering – For homes able to provide stability for six to twelve months. This allows horses more time to settle, gain condition, or wait for the right adopter. Basic costs may be reimbursed, with veterinary needs fully supported by New Start.

Specialized Fostering – Some horses arrive needing stall rest, rehabilitation, or behavior support. These placements are offered to experienced homes who can follow a care or training plan designed for that horse’s needs. Costs may be reimbursed by New Start, depending on a horses needs.

End-of-Life Fostering – A role of compassion and dignity. For older or medically limited horses, you provide a peaceful home for their remaining time, supported fully by our team.

Retirement Adoption – For those who wish to give a horse a lifelong home without riding expectations. New Start assists with annual vet costs and prescriptions, ensuring comfort and care for the horse’s golden years.

Foster – To – Adopt

Not sure if you’re ready to adopt? Our Foster-to-Adopt program allows you to welcome a horse for up to three months while deciding if it’s the right fit. If you choose to adopt, the fee is reduced. If not, New Start reimburses your costs and the horse continues on their journey. This option ensures every placement is made with confidence and care.

Ready To Foster?

Fostering is a partnership—between you, the horse, and our dedicated team. If you’re ready to make a difference, we’d love to hear from you.
Please fill out the form below, and we will work with you to potentially match you to a foster opportunity.
Questions? Reach out anytime at administration@newstartstandardbreds.com.

Click HERE if you do not see our foster application above, to take you to the direct link.