Draft horses retired from work, farming, and logging need appropriate care and retirement planning to avoid abandonment and welfare neglect.
Retired draft horses without adequate plans for their care can face neglect, abandonment, or sale into poor welfare situations when owners cannot manage their needs. These large animals have significant ongoing care costs for hoof trimming, dental care, and nutrition. Rescue organizations provide a safety net but are consistently overwhelmed. Planning for retirement before acquiring working draft horses prevents welfare failures.