Second Stride, Inc

Second Stride’s mission is to provide professional rehabilitation, retraining and placement of retired Thoroughbred racehorses with qualified adopters.

We specialize in giving transitioning Thoroughbreds the proper care and quality training they need to succeed in something new. 

Since our founding in 2005, we have placed over 1,900 retired Thoroughbred racehorses and other Thoroughbreds in need with qualified adopters around the country.

Second Stride was born from a fierce passion for the racing industry, an industry at the cultural and historical heart of Kentucky. Partnering that passion with the desire to ensure aftercare for each of these incredible animals, our journey began. In early 2022, we created the program Broodmare & Bloodstock serving broodmares of any age in need of rehoming (please note: our expectation is they would not continue breeding) and young bloodstock not suitable for racing.

The expense of caring for each horse - whether a transitioning champion racehorse, an aged broodmare or a yearling - is significant. Housing, food, medical care and training cost an average of $2,200 a month per horse. Second Stride's adoption fees typically cover less than half the expense.

We rely on donations of any amount from generous animal lovers to continue this program. Every dollar donated goes to the care and training of these magnificent animals. 

Our devoted professional staff work diligently to connect the hearts of our beloved horses to the hearts of passionate, committed adopters. We hope you will join us in our mission to help thoroughbred horses achieve their full potential after racing. 

Who We Are

Second Stride is a 501 (c)(3) tax-exempt, non-profit organization providing professional rehabilitation, retraining, and placement for retired thoroughbred racehorses in qualified homes so that they may reach their full potential in a productive second career. Second Stride has been accredited by the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance (TAA) since 2014 and a partner of ASPCA Right Horse since 2021.