FAQs
ABOUT NEW STRIDE
How is New Stride funded?
New Stride is supported by donations from the Thoroughbred industry, the racetrack and equine communities, private individuals, and foundations. The organization receives no government funding of any kind.
Does New Stride rescue horses?
We are often asked this question. No, we are not a rescue organization. The horses that we have in our program were donated to us by caring racehorse owners who want to ensure their horses find the best home possible once their careers are over. New Stride was founded at Hastings Racecourse in 2002 by a group of concerned owners, breeders and backstretch workers who sought to provide opportunities for a dignified retirement for as many Thoroughbreds as possible.
GENERAL
Is an ex-racehorse best for me?
Good question! These horses are not typically for beginners! Although extremely intelligent and quite worldly in their life experiences, as far as riding skills, they have only been taught to race at high speeds. They need professional retraining or an experienced horse person to teach them new skills. Please visit our Resources page for more information on this topic.
What is the best way to find a horse?
Anyone seriously looking to acquire a Thoroughbred will visit our Adopt a Horse and Other Horses page often as new horses and listings come in regularly. You may also place your name and desired horse requirements on the Horses Wanted list in the forum.
DONATIONS
Are you a registered charity?
Yes, our charity number is 86419 0228 RR0001.
Will I get a tax receipt?
Yes, we provide tax receipts for all donations.
How can I make a donation?
There are a variety of ways you can make your donation. Please click here for more information. You may also consider leaving a legacy.
Do you accept donations other than money?
Yes, we accept all sort of donations! Not sure what to provide? Check out our wish list.
ADOPTIONS
Do the adoption horses have their registration papers? When do adopters get the papers?
Generally, yes, all New Stride adoption horses come with registration papers. Adopters will receive the registration papers once the one-year adoption period is complete.
I've found a horse I like. How do I see it?
Great! If you've found a horse you like, please contact the person listed for the horse and make a definite date and appointment to see it. Please be on time and call if you must cancel.
How much do the adoption horses cost?
$750 paid in full before taking the horse home.
Does the entire adoption fee have to be paid at once?
Generally, yes, the fee needs to be paid before the horse leaves our care.
What payment types are accepted?
We ask for a cheque, money order or cash. Alternatively you can pay online via our PayPal account.
Can I have a pre-purchase exam done?
Yes! We encourage all adopters to have pre-purchase exams done. Although we provide full disclosure on the history of the horse since New Stride took ownership, we are not always privy to the horse's entire lifetime medical history. You may bring your own veterinarian or we can recommend one to you.
When do I get my horse's papers?
We will provide you with your horse's papers one year after you've adopted the horse. We can work with you if there are special circumstances (e.g. requiring papers for competition, travel, etc) that require you to have the papers sooner than the one-year mark. Contact us for more details.
OTHER HORSES
Is there a charge or commission to list my horse?
Our forum is a free service to help unwanted racehorses find non-race homes. There are no fees charged to the listing racing trainer or owner or for purchasers.
Do I contact New Stride if I want to see a horse list in the Other Horses section?
You always contact the person who has the horse listed in the Other Horses section. If the listing is by a trainer or owner, there is no approval process and you contact the person directly to make arrangements to see the horse and work out your best deal. If you are in the Adopt a Horse section, then you will be contacting New Stride for adoption details.
Do these horses have their registration papers?
If the listed horse is at the track or in a breeding program, it should be expected that the trainers and owners will provide the horse's registration papers. It is rare that a horse does not have its Jockey Club registration papers as these papers are required to be on file at the Racing Secretary's office if the horse is at the track and, of course, are required if the horse is retired for breeding. Transfer of the papers should be made at the actual time of sale when money exchanges hands. If the listed horse is coming from a farm, it may not have papers. You will want to contact the owner or trainer directly to confirm whether they are in possession of registration papers.
Will the trainers take a cheque?
Usually not. Most insist on cash payment upfront.
Does New Stride vouch for the soundness & health of the Other Horses?
New Stride does not offer any guarantee on the physical condition or behavior of any of the Other Horses at any time. Buyer and seller carry full responsibility for the acquisition, transportation, care, and soundness of any horse. All statements made on the website with reference to any horse listed in the Other Horses section are the descriptions of the trainers/owners of their horses and are not verified by New Stride. As with any horse sale, New Stride recommends a veterinary prepurchase examination.
What types of horses are listed in the Other Horses section?
We only permit Thoroughbreds in our Other Horses section. These horses may be straight from the racetrack, training farm, or breeding facility. They may also be riding horses who have been off the track for a number of years and are now in need of new homes. As long as they are Thoroughbred they can be listed in our Other Horses section!
VOLUNTEERING:
What can I do to help?
There are many ways for you to help:
How do I become a volunteer?
If you would like to volunteer with New Stride, please fill out the Volunteer Registration Form. Once we have received your request, you will be contacted by one of our Volunteer Coordinators.
I’ve already submitted my application; how long will it be until I can start volunteering?
It depends on the activities you’ve signed up for. Please be patient; we will contact you as soon as a spot opens up that matches the availability you placed on your application.
How old do I have to be in order to volunteer?
We accept volunteers of any age. However, volunteers under 18 years of age must provide written consent from their guardian. Children 16 years and younger must be accompanied by an adult with horse experience.
How often do I have to volunteer?
Some people prefer to volunteer year-round; others only help out during specific events. We’re grateful of whatever level of support you’re able to provide.
Can I volunteer at New Stride for a short period of time?
Yes, you can volunteer for just one event; or you can volunteer on an on-going basis. Generally though, we ask for a minimum commitment of 3 months from the volunteers that work directly with the horses.
Can I volunteer for more than one volunteer activity?
Yes, you may volunteer with as many different activities you wish. We have various fundraising activities throughout the course of the year and are always in need of a helping hand.
Can I volunteer even though I don’t have horse experience?
Yes, first timers are welcome to volunteer. There are many volunteer activities that do not require any horse knowledge (e.g. fundraising, marketing, etc). However, those wishing to work with the horses must have a minimum level of previous horse experience.
Can volunteers ride the horses?
Volunteers may ride the horses; however, they must be approved by their designated Volunteer Coordinator and have insurance from Horse Council BC (obtained here).
As many of our horses are young and green, we require our volunteers to have a certain level of experience before riding the horses. This helps ensure the safety of both our volunteers and our horses.
Before a volunteer can ride a horse, they must go through a supervised training period. During this time, one of our Volunteer Coordinators will assess the rider’s ability and determine whether their experience is suitable for our horses.
What level of experience is required to ride the horses?
A good gauge of experience is to assess where you would fit within the Canadian Pony Club standards. All riders should at minimum satisfy the D1 Level of Pony Club (details).
If you aren’t at that level yet, don’t worry. Please revisit the process with us once you’ve gained a bit more experience. We look forward to seeing your progress.
How much time does volunteering take; do I have to volunteer everyday?
Only you can decide how much time you would like to spend volunteering. Each volunteer activity varies as to how much time is necessary to complete the task. There are a wide variety of commitment levels available. Generally though, we ask for a minimum commitment of 3 months from the volunteers that work directly with the horses.
Is there a volunteer information briefing that I should attend?
There is no information briefing for volunteers to attend; however, we may have pre-event meetings and training sessions depending on the activity of interest. Once you’ve filled out our Volunteer Registration Form, you will be contacted by one of our Volunteer Coordinators. They will provide you with all the pertinent information.
How do you keep your volunteers informed?
Once you’ve signed up to volunteer, you will be added to our volunteer email list. We will email you periodically about various volunteering opportunities as well as information concerning our programs, horses, and general news.
What should I do if I have a specialized interest or skill to contribute (such as graphic design, marketing experience, etc)?
Please indicate any special interests or skills when filling out the Volunteer Registration Form. Once we receive your information, we will connect you to the right person, place, or group. If you have checked off a special skill, that information will be stored in our database and quite possibly used to contact you for other volunteer needs in the future.
Does volunteering for New Stride count towards required volunteer hours for school?
New Stride is a registered charity in Canada. We’re happy to sign forms after you’ve completed your volunteer duties.
Can I get a letter of reference for volunteering?
By volunteering for New Stride you can request a letter of reference.
Am I expected to show up for the event that I’ve signed-up for?
If you have committed to a specific event, we expect you to show up for your shift. We are dependent on our volunteers to ensure our events run smoothly and efficiently. If you are not able to make it to a shift, please let us know in advance.
What if I need to break my volunteering commitment to New Stride?
Circumstances change and we understand, but please contact as soon as possible so we can make alternate arrangements.
FOSTER FARMS:
I'm interested in becoming a foster farm. How do I apply to become a foster farm?
Email us a detailed proposal including your horse experience and background, as well as detailed information/photos regarding your facilities.
Got more questions? Contact us and we will gladly answer them for you!
How is New Stride funded?
New Stride is supported by donations from the Thoroughbred industry, the racetrack and equine communities, private individuals, and foundations. The organization receives no government funding of any kind.
Does New Stride rescue horses?
We are often asked this question. No, we are not a rescue organization. The horses that we have in our program were donated to us by caring racehorse owners who want to ensure their horses find the best home possible once their careers are over. New Stride was founded at Hastings Racecourse in 2002 by a group of concerned owners, breeders and backstretch workers who sought to provide opportunities for a dignified retirement for as many Thoroughbreds as possible.
GENERAL
Is an ex-racehorse best for me?
Good question! These horses are not typically for beginners! Although extremely intelligent and quite worldly in their life experiences, as far as riding skills, they have only been taught to race at high speeds. They need professional retraining or an experienced horse person to teach them new skills. Please visit our Resources page for more information on this topic.
What is the best way to find a horse?
Anyone seriously looking to acquire a Thoroughbred will visit our Adopt a Horse and Other Horses page often as new horses and listings come in regularly. You may also place your name and desired horse requirements on the Horses Wanted list in the forum.
DONATIONS
Are you a registered charity?
Yes, our charity number is 86419 0228 RR0001.
Will I get a tax receipt?
Yes, we provide tax receipts for all donations.
How can I make a donation?
There are a variety of ways you can make your donation. Please click here for more information. You may also consider leaving a legacy.
Do you accept donations other than money?
Yes, we accept all sort of donations! Not sure what to provide? Check out our wish list.
ADOPTIONS
Do the adoption horses have their registration papers? When do adopters get the papers?
Generally, yes, all New Stride adoption horses come with registration papers. Adopters will receive the registration papers once the one-year adoption period is complete.
I've found a horse I like. How do I see it?
Great! If you've found a horse you like, please contact the person listed for the horse and make a definite date and appointment to see it. Please be on time and call if you must cancel.
How much do the adoption horses cost?
$750 paid in full before taking the horse home.
Does the entire adoption fee have to be paid at once?
Generally, yes, the fee needs to be paid before the horse leaves our care.
What payment types are accepted?
We ask for a cheque, money order or cash. Alternatively you can pay online via our PayPal account.
Can I have a pre-purchase exam done?
Yes! We encourage all adopters to have pre-purchase exams done. Although we provide full disclosure on the history of the horse since New Stride took ownership, we are not always privy to the horse's entire lifetime medical history. You may bring your own veterinarian or we can recommend one to you.
When do I get my horse's papers?
We will provide you with your horse's papers one year after you've adopted the horse. We can work with you if there are special circumstances (e.g. requiring papers for competition, travel, etc) that require you to have the papers sooner than the one-year mark. Contact us for more details.
OTHER HORSES
Is there a charge or commission to list my horse?
Our forum is a free service to help unwanted racehorses find non-race homes. There are no fees charged to the listing racing trainer or owner or for purchasers.
Do I contact New Stride if I want to see a horse list in the Other Horses section?
You always contact the person who has the horse listed in the Other Horses section. If the listing is by a trainer or owner, there is no approval process and you contact the person directly to make arrangements to see the horse and work out your best deal. If you are in the Adopt a Horse section, then you will be contacting New Stride for adoption details.
Do these horses have their registration papers?
If the listed horse is at the track or in a breeding program, it should be expected that the trainers and owners will provide the horse's registration papers. It is rare that a horse does not have its Jockey Club registration papers as these papers are required to be on file at the Racing Secretary's office if the horse is at the track and, of course, are required if the horse is retired for breeding. Transfer of the papers should be made at the actual time of sale when money exchanges hands. If the listed horse is coming from a farm, it may not have papers. You will want to contact the owner or trainer directly to confirm whether they are in possession of registration papers.
Will the trainers take a cheque?
Usually not. Most insist on cash payment upfront.
Does New Stride vouch for the soundness & health of the Other Horses?
New Stride does not offer any guarantee on the physical condition or behavior of any of the Other Horses at any time. Buyer and seller carry full responsibility for the acquisition, transportation, care, and soundness of any horse. All statements made on the website with reference to any horse listed in the Other Horses section are the descriptions of the trainers/owners of their horses and are not verified by New Stride. As with any horse sale, New Stride recommends a veterinary prepurchase examination.
What types of horses are listed in the Other Horses section?
We only permit Thoroughbreds in our Other Horses section. These horses may be straight from the racetrack, training farm, or breeding facility. They may also be riding horses who have been off the track for a number of years and are now in need of new homes. As long as they are Thoroughbred they can be listed in our Other Horses section!
VOLUNTEERING:
What can I do to help?
There are many ways for you to help:
- Helping out at fundraising events
- Host a third party event fundraiser
- Gathering silent auction items
- Contributing to marketing and design
- Writing grant proposals and assisting with public relations
- Hosting information tables at industry events
- Assisting with administrative work
- Caring for the horses (handling, grooming, rehabilitation, etc)
- Training and exercising the horses
- Providing rehabilitation services for the horses (veterinary care, massage therapy, etc)
How do I become a volunteer?
If you would like to volunteer with New Stride, please fill out the Volunteer Registration Form. Once we have received your request, you will be contacted by one of our Volunteer Coordinators.
I’ve already submitted my application; how long will it be until I can start volunteering?
It depends on the activities you’ve signed up for. Please be patient; we will contact you as soon as a spot opens up that matches the availability you placed on your application.
How old do I have to be in order to volunteer?
We accept volunteers of any age. However, volunteers under 18 years of age must provide written consent from their guardian. Children 16 years and younger must be accompanied by an adult with horse experience.
How often do I have to volunteer?
Some people prefer to volunteer year-round; others only help out during specific events. We’re grateful of whatever level of support you’re able to provide.
Can I volunteer at New Stride for a short period of time?
Yes, you can volunteer for just one event; or you can volunteer on an on-going basis. Generally though, we ask for a minimum commitment of 3 months from the volunteers that work directly with the horses.
Can I volunteer for more than one volunteer activity?
Yes, you may volunteer with as many different activities you wish. We have various fundraising activities throughout the course of the year and are always in need of a helping hand.
Can I volunteer even though I don’t have horse experience?
Yes, first timers are welcome to volunteer. There are many volunteer activities that do not require any horse knowledge (e.g. fundraising, marketing, etc). However, those wishing to work with the horses must have a minimum level of previous horse experience.
Can volunteers ride the horses?
Volunteers may ride the horses; however, they must be approved by their designated Volunteer Coordinator and have insurance from Horse Council BC (obtained here).
As many of our horses are young and green, we require our volunteers to have a certain level of experience before riding the horses. This helps ensure the safety of both our volunteers and our horses.
Before a volunteer can ride a horse, they must go through a supervised training period. During this time, one of our Volunteer Coordinators will assess the rider’s ability and determine whether their experience is suitable for our horses.
What level of experience is required to ride the horses?
A good gauge of experience is to assess where you would fit within the Canadian Pony Club standards. All riders should at minimum satisfy the D1 Level of Pony Club (details).
If you aren’t at that level yet, don’t worry. Please revisit the process with us once you’ve gained a bit more experience. We look forward to seeing your progress.
How much time does volunteering take; do I have to volunteer everyday?
Only you can decide how much time you would like to spend volunteering. Each volunteer activity varies as to how much time is necessary to complete the task. There are a wide variety of commitment levels available. Generally though, we ask for a minimum commitment of 3 months from the volunteers that work directly with the horses.
Is there a volunteer information briefing that I should attend?
There is no information briefing for volunteers to attend; however, we may have pre-event meetings and training sessions depending on the activity of interest. Once you’ve filled out our Volunteer Registration Form, you will be contacted by one of our Volunteer Coordinators. They will provide you with all the pertinent information.
How do you keep your volunteers informed?
Once you’ve signed up to volunteer, you will be added to our volunteer email list. We will email you periodically about various volunteering opportunities as well as information concerning our programs, horses, and general news.
What should I do if I have a specialized interest or skill to contribute (such as graphic design, marketing experience, etc)?
Please indicate any special interests or skills when filling out the Volunteer Registration Form. Once we receive your information, we will connect you to the right person, place, or group. If you have checked off a special skill, that information will be stored in our database and quite possibly used to contact you for other volunteer needs in the future.
Does volunteering for New Stride count towards required volunteer hours for school?
New Stride is a registered charity in Canada. We’re happy to sign forms after you’ve completed your volunteer duties.
Can I get a letter of reference for volunteering?
By volunteering for New Stride you can request a letter of reference.
Am I expected to show up for the event that I’ve signed-up for?
If you have committed to a specific event, we expect you to show up for your shift. We are dependent on our volunteers to ensure our events run smoothly and efficiently. If you are not able to make it to a shift, please let us know in advance.
What if I need to break my volunteering commitment to New Stride?
Circumstances change and we understand, but please contact as soon as possible so we can make alternate arrangements.
FOSTER FARMS:
I'm interested in becoming a foster farm. How do I apply to become a foster farm?
Email us a detailed proposal including your horse experience and background, as well as detailed information/photos regarding your facilities.
Got more questions? Contact us and we will gladly answer them for you!
