Humane Society of Louisiana’s Mardi Gras Horse Adoption Program – A Labor Of Love!
When you think of Mardi Gras, what comes to mind? Jazz music, colorful costumes, dancing in the streets, eating King Cake and drinking Hurricanes, and the parades…of course! Mardi Gras, or “Fat Tuesday” is the big revelry before the auster Lenten Season begins on Ash Wednesday. Thoughts of Mardi Gras don’t always bring horses to mind, but they play a very important part!
Who the “Krew” Knew?
If you’ve never been to Mardi Gras, or have limited knowledge of all that goes into it (like me) you might be surprised to know the story behind many of the horses that bring their beauty and grandeur to the festivities. Many of the riders own their horses. But some of them are brought into the city solely to be used in the parades. They’re rented to the carnival krewes, social organizations that stage the parades and balls for the Carnival season. But what happens to these horses after the parades? That’s where the Human Society of Louisiana and Cascade Stables come in.
Humane Society of Louisiana’s Mardi Gras Horse Adoption Program
Many of the carnival Krew members were not horse owners, so about twenty horses were purchased by Cascade Stables in Audobon Louisiana shortly before Mardi Gras, where they were housed and vetted.
The Humane Society of Louisiana learned that after the festivities, the horses were sold back to the brokers and headed for slaughter in Mexico. To prevent this cruel fate, a plan was put in place in 2017 to offer the horses for adoption. To date, 100 horses have been adopted!
How To Adopt
Not just anyone can adopt these horses. First, you must fill out an application. Pictures of the horses and additional information can be found on can be found here on the HSL Facebook page. The right horse must be matched up with the right owner. This program is not for first-time horse owners. When your application is approved you can make arrangements to visit Cascade Stables to meet the horses.
What Does It Cost?
Adoption fees range from $700 to $1,600 depending on the horse. The adoption fees go to the stable that purchased the horses from the broker. This is not a “for-profit” program of the HLS. Other fees include hauling the horse to its new home, and paying for your personal vet check if desired. You must include the name of your veterinarian, farrier, and plan for the horse. If for some reason you can no longer take care of the horse, the contract specifies that it be returned to HLS. If you wish to re-home the horse with another owner, that person must be approved by HLS.
What If a Horse Is Not Adopted?
Any horses that are not adopted are taken care of for life at the HLS Sanctuary. The mission is to get the horses “out of the system” and see that they are cared for the rest of their lives. Visit the HLS Facebook page soon. Horses go quickly!
Jasmine – A Beautiful Succes Story
“In February of 2024, my family and I adopted Jasmine aka “Jazzy” from the Mardi Gras program after being on the market for a pasture buddy for one of our mares. I stumbled upon the Mardi Gras program on Facebook and on our local news. Decided to take a look at what was available. That’s when I laid eyes on Jasmine and a few others. At first, I was a little hesitant as these horses come in with little to no information about them. However, I decided it won’t hurt to take a look at her. Spoke with Ms. Rena after submitting and being approved on my application about what my needs were. She instantly got in contact with the volunteers and said Jasmine would be the better fit for my family and needs. We immediately arranged to come out and take a look at her so that we could assess her. Upon seeing her our hearts knew instantly she was to come home with us. She was thin and could see in her eyes the desire to be loved. She was scared but still willing to let us get near. We sealed the deal and a few days later she was home with us. Let me just say I’m thankful for Ms. Rena and the Mardi Gras program for helping find these horses’ new forever homes. Jasmine has been such a blessing to our family. Not only is she the sweetest girl with a great personality, but also the best pasture buddy and my best friend. This girl now lives her life being spoiled and loved on every second we get. Listen to our cues and commands, safe around our younger kids which was a big must for us. Always the first to meet us at the gate for turn-in at night. Loves to be groomed, but best of all loves my hugs and kisses. Did I mention she loves her belly? I’m forever grateful and consider ourselves fortunate to have Jazzy in our lives.” – Angelica
If adopting a horse is not in your plan, please consider donating to support the program.
Humane Society of Louisiana’s Mardi Gras Horses Adoption Program
Not able To Make It to Mardi Gras This Year?
Make your own Mardi Gras Barn Bash! Visit our Equestrian Epicurian post to put together the perfect celebration! You’ll find inspiration for:
- Décor & Styling
- Activities & Entertainment for Young & Old
- Delicious Recipes for Food And Drinks
- Signature Cocktail Recipe – (Spoiler alert! …The Bayou Bridle!)
- Final Touches & Hosting Tips
The Equestrian Epicurian is our guide for celebrating the fun & fellowship of the equestrian lifestyle!
