Colorado has taken an important step forward for equine welfare. Thanks to newly allocated state equine welfare funds, the AAEP/Foundation for the Horse now has dedicated financial support earmarked exclusively for Colorado horses in need.
That’s a big deal—and it has the potential to change lives.
But here’s the challenge: the funds aren’t being used as widely as we know they could be.
And we think we know why.
Horse Owners Rely on Their Vets First
Through the ASPCA Right Horse’s Vet Direct program, nationwide data clearly shows that the #1 way owners in crisis learn about available financial help is from their own veterinarian.
When their horse is sick, injured, or simply in a moment of unexpected need, their first call is their vet. If that vet is enrolled in the Vet Direct Safety Net, those owners gain immediate access to support that can keep horses healthy, safe, and out of crisis situations.
Right now, Colorado has funding. Colorado has horses who could benefit.
What we need is more Colorado equine veterinarians enrolled.
Why Onboarding More Vets Matters
Bringing more vets into the Vet Direct Safety Net will:
- Increase awareness so more owners in need actually receive assistance
- Support rescue organizations, who often field urgent calls from owners but have nowhere to refer them
- Provide vets with a no-stress way to help clients without having to choose between offering care and receiving payment
It’s truly a win-win-win: for vets, for owners, and most importantly, for the horses.
The Enrollment Process Is Quick and Easy
Onboarding takes about 15 minutes, and the reimbursement process for services is streamlined and efficient. The goal is to make participating simple, sustainable, and beneficial for busy equine practices.
How You Can Help
We’re asking our Colorado equine community—organizations, professionals, and horse advocates—to help spread the word.
If you have relationships with any equine veterinarians (and we hope you have many!), please ask whether they’d be willing to enroll. They can:
- Submit an interest form here: https://airtable.com/appUmbRDjv0UXAcc1/shrurxy6AbaW2mZbg
OR - Learn more before committing by visiting these two pages: AAEP and ASPCA
Every single vet who joins strengthens the safety net for horses in our state.
Colorado Horses Deserve a Strong, Supported Future
The truth is simple: The need exists. The funding exists. Now we just need the connections.
By helping onboard more Colorado equine veterinarians, you’re helping ensure that unexpected hardships don’t become crises—and that horses get the care they deserve, when they need it most.
If you’d like to get involved or have vets who may be interested, please reach out to Joanna Magee with ASPCA. Together, we can make sure Colorado’s equine community uses these welfare funds to their fullest potential.
Author: Una
Una moved to Colorado in 2007 and started the Colorado Horse Forum as a way to meet other equestrians in the area. Una now rides and competes in dressage. She operates a small dressage horse breeding program in Castle Rock.
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