title: Rutgers Young Horse Teaching and Research Program: sustainability of taking a risk with "at risk" horses.
abstract: In 1999, the Young Horse Teaching and Research Program (YHTRP) was initiated at Rutgers University. The unique aspect of the program was using horses generally considered "at risk" and in need of rescue, but of relatively low value. The risks of using horses from pregnant mare urine (PMU) ranches and Bureau of Land Management (BLM) mustangs were high, but, ultimately, unrealized. No students or staff members were seriously injured over the course of the next 12 yr, and the horses were sold annually as highly desirable potential athletes or pleasure horses, usually at a profit. The use of "at risk" horses generated a significant amount of positive media attention and attracted substantial funding in the form of donations and sponsorships, averaging over $60,000 (USD)per year. Despite economic downturns, public and industry support provided sustainability for the program with only basic University infrastructural support. Taking the risk of using "at risk" horses paid off, with positive outcomes for all.
authors: Department of Animal Sciences, School of Environmental and Biological Sciences, and Equine Science Center, New Jersey Agricultural Experiment Station, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick 08901, USA. ralston@aesop.rutgers.edu
authors: Sarah L
authors: SL
authors: Ralston
authors: Anne
authors: A
authors: Molnar
mesh_terms: D000822:Animal Husbandry / Q000379:methods*; D000827:Animal Welfare; D000818:Animals; D003247:Conservation of Natural Resources; D005260:Female; D006736:Horses; D008297:Male; D009515:New Jersey; D012106:Research / Q000191:economics; D014495:Universities