Unwanted horses are often called “throwaway ponies.” People are often “thrown away” too. There are the neglected and abused, battered and abandoned, lost and confused, and then forgotten.
A horse’s insight and honesty help people discover their own inner strength to overcome fear and self-doubt. For those who feel trapped in circumstances beyond their control the soft nuzzle of a horse, the triumph of mastering the ride, the simple joy and confidence of a horse’s gait can restore trust and reintegrate the mind and body. It can make the difference between giving up and moving forward confidently in strength and freedom.
A horse’s size and gentleness show that it is possible to be strong and kind without sacrificing one for the other.
The relationship that develops between horse and rider builds trust, provides a trusting emotional connection and is a source for much needed love and affection for both.
Horses lend us the wings we lack.
Throwaway Ponies was started by Karen Bander and her daughter Mary, in 2005 to provide a home to horses that were old, lame and virtually unadoptable. Soon, the need for a rescue for other horses became apparent. Now, we have horses of all ages. Learning how beneficial horses are to building self-confidence and healing broken hearts, we added programs for children and adults using horses as therapists
Our mission at TaPs is two-fold:
1. To provide a safe haven for horses who have been abused and neglected or who might have been euthanized because of their condition but were salvageable.
2. To build self-confidence and leadership skills in everyone of our students, volunteers and participants.
17990 CR 656
PO Box 149
Farmersville, TX 75442
This rescue doesn’t have any adoptable pets right now – check out adoptable pets nearby or start a custom pet search below.
DFW area
Additional adoption info
At Throwaway Ponies, we want our horses to be adopted to a "forever" home. Therefore, we want a good fit between horse and family. We want to know what you expect from the equine and how you plan to use it. Then we can help you choose which one will fit with your goals. Horses are even available on a trial basis once a home is approved.
Types of horses available:
1. Fully rideable - we rarely get these, but do occasionally. Some can be ridden by experienced riders only.
2. Green broke - can be ridden by experienced rider, but will improve with training
3. Companion - good to put with another horse or get 2 as "yard art". Not to be ridden.
4. Trainable - no or little training, but you can train or hire a trainer
We ask for 3 references from your veterinarian, friend, and horse professional (if you know one). Please ask them to mail back the recommendation form.
We will come inspect your property for water source, shelter, fencing (barbed wire on over 10 ac only for safety reasons). Horses do not like to be stalled, but they must have shade and shelter from the wind and rain.
We will inspect the horses in 6 months, 12 months and then annually or ask you to email us photos.
Horses must be adequately fed and have current Coggins test and regular (at least every 8 weeks) farrier care.
Horses must have a companion – either horse, donkey or goat.
If the TaPs representative does not feel you are adequately caring for the horse, we will make recommendations that must be followed or you must surrender the horse.
If you move, you must let TaPs know your new location. If you can no longer care for the equine, you must return it to TaPs. If someone you know wants the horse, they must be approved by TaPs, but will be given first consideration if they are approved.
Garland, TX 75042
Kaufman, TX 75142
687 North Lakeview Dr,
Lake Dallas,
TX
75065
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