Do you qualify?

SALEM, Ohio – Interested in applying to adopt a wild horse or burro? Applicants must meet the following guidelines:

* At least 18 and a resident of the United States. Parents or guardians may adopt a wild horse or burro and allow younger family members to care for the animal.

* No prior convictions of inhumane treatment of animals or violation of the Wild Free-Roaming Horse and Burro Act.

* Demonstrate the ability to provide adequate feed, water and facilities for humane care for the numbers of animals requested, including 400 square feet of space per animal, including a 12-foot square covered shelter with attached pasture, and fencing at least 6 feet high. Barbed wire, large-mesh woven, stranded and electric materials are unacceptable for ungentled animals. Other fencing rules may apply.

* The bureau recommends a stock trailer to transport animals from adoption sites. No animal will be loaded into makeshift trailers or pick-up trucks. Trailers must have a covered top, sturdy floors and walls, a smooth interior free from sharp protrusions and adequate ventilation.

* The Bureau of Land Management will not adopt to an individual who has expressed an intent to use an adopted wild horse or burro for commercial purposes after receiving title.

* Must provide a halter and lead rope at the time of adoption.

An adoption event will be held Feb. 9 at Cooper Arena at the Ohio Expo Center (state fairgrounds).

For more information on this event or adopting wild horses and burros, contact the federal Adopt A Wild Horse or Burro program at 1-866-4MUSTANGS.

(You can contact Andrea Myers at 1-800-837-3419, ext. 22, or by e-mail at amyers@farmanddairy.com.)