If you've ever dreamt of owning your own wild horse or burro, your chances just climbed to an all time high in Lawton, Oklahoma. This year, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), is bringing the sale to southwest Oklahoma.

Adoption Incentive Program

The BLM doesn't just want to make some dreams come true, but they're even trying to put up to $1,000 in your pocket for adopting. Of course, the money doesn't come until after you've signed to be the animal's official owner, 60 days later.

What Do You Need To Adopt?

There are always a few things to consider when adopting an animal - let alone a 2,000 pound powerhouse. Along with the $125 adoption fee due at the time of the event, new adopters should consider:

  • These animals are wild and unhandled. Someone unfamiliar with horses should not attempt to own or train their own without the help of a professional.
  • According to the BLM, "During the adoption period, the BLM conducts compliance inspections on animals while in private care prior to title transfer." Meaning you'll be closely monitored to ensure you're caring for the animal properly until you obtain the title for the animal.
  • You will not be able to sell the animal for at least a year after getting the title. Make sure you buy knowing that this is a long-term committment.
  • Things like enclosed areas, access to fresh water, safe fencing, a shelter to get away from the elements all need to be prepared beforehand. The entire list of requirements can be found here.

Domestic Versus Wild Horses

Although they're the same species, it's important to remember that wild burros and horses are different from domestic horses. They think differently, respond differently to threats and usually take longer to adjust to people.

@mandaleann85 So excited to see what my daughter can do with this beautiful girl. #oklahoma #horsesoftiktok #fyp #wildmustangs #blmmustang #buckskin #filly #horsegirl #wildhorses #mustangadoption #foxhoghma #foxhogmustang #laineywilson ♬ Heart Like A Truck - Lainey Wilson

That's not to say that there aren't golden gems out of the herds. Some people in Oklahoma have brought home some incredible mustangs that go against the grain.

@thecourtneylp Nelson and I have finally settled into a grove. He's had his feet trimmed, vaccinations, and is starting to do domestic horse things. 💜 #blmmustang #paisleydesert #horsetraining ♬ Chill Vibes - Tollan Kim

Wild horses may take longer than usual to learn things that come quickly to domestic horse, but those that have adopted before say that it's well worth the work.

Lawton's Adoption Event

The BLM sale in Lawton will be on Friday, August 2nd and Saturday, August 3rd at the Comanche County Fairgrounds. Things start at 9:00 a.m. on Friday and keep going until 4 in the afternoon. Saturday's event will be shorter, from 8:00 a.m. to noon. There will be about 120 wild horses and burros to choose from.

Don't forget the stock trailer and high hopes for possibly your next family member.

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