Alaska is still popular for retirees. The 20-year-old gelding is the first retired horse from the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) Musical Ride to be offered for adoption to the general public through the Horse Divestiture Program. The responses were so numerous – around 1,600 adoption offers in the first 24 hours – that the Royal Canadian Mounted Police had to pause the process while all applications were reviewed.
“To be honest, we were a little overwhelmed,” admitted RCMP Sergeant Major and Master Squire Scott Williamson. We didn't expect so much interest, but it's very positive. This means that the chances of finding a good home for Alaska or any other horse are very, very good.
For 30 years, retired RCMP Musical Ride horses could only be donated to charities and non-profit organizations, but Williamson said that process could be long and arduous. Thanks to new sales rules adopted last year, horses can now find their place on private farms.
[Ces chevaux] have served the RCMP and Canada well, but now we need to think about them.
According to Sergeant Major Williamson, the aim is to find the best possible solution for the animals.
These horses had extraordinary lives. “We do our best to care for them and we want to be sure their new home provides them with the same type of care,” he explained.
Very precise adoption criteria
Mr Williamson points out that the successful candidate must have extensive experience with horses. She will likely live near Ottawa to limit travel time from Alaska.
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RCMP Sergeant Major and Master Squire, Scott Williamson
Photo: Radio-Canada / Jean Delisle
The person selected must also have the financial means to continue providing Alaska with the lifestyle to which the animal has become accustomed, even if the adoption itself is free.
Our priority is not financial. “Our priority is to find the best home for Alaska,” Mr. Williamson assured, describing the adoption as a big commitment.
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The riders and their mounts train at the RCMP stables in Ottawa in May. This year marks the 150th anniversary of the RCMP.
Photo: The Canadian Press / Sean Kilpatrick
The legendary black Hanoverian horses are bred specifically for the Musical Ride program at the RCMP breeding farm in Pakenham, Ontario. Those who make it usually complete three years of training to be able to take part in this very popular show.
A well-deserved retirement
Before they retire, they are employed as schoolmasters to teach new trainees the intricacies of the carousel. They are also used in the Soldier On program, which helps members of the Canadian Armed Forces overcome various illnesses and injuries through equine-assisted therapy.
Ultimately, the veterinarian decides when the horse's career is over and it can retire.
The best solution for them is to find them good homes where they can live a completely secluded life in the greenest of pastures and become companion horses, Williamson said.
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Alaska, center, in her stable at the RCMP Musical Ride stable in Ottawa. The horse will soon find a new home on a private farm.
Photo: Radio-Canada / Jean Delisle
The number of horses available for sale varies depending on a number of factors. Currently, Alaska is the only horse available for public adoption, but sometimes there are three or four horses looking for a new home.
Although he admits it always hurts him when the horses leave, Mr Williamson says he is happy to know they will benefit from a well-deserved retirement.
With reporting from CBC News' Samuel Wat