The Humane Society of Louisiana has launched the 2026 Mardi Gras Horse Adoption Program, a life-saving initiative started in 2017 to ensure horses used in New Orleans Mardi Gras parades find permanent, loving homes after the season ends. Traditionally, many parade horses were rented and returned to brokers, often facing uncertain futures including low-end auctions or slaughter. The program partners with local stables to intervene early, providing veterinary care and matching horses with suitable adopters, successfully placing over 100 horses into vetted homes to date.
The adoption window is limited, with a goal to have all horses pre-adopted before Mardi Gras on March 4, 2026, so they can transition immediately to their new lives. Adoption fees range from $650 to $1,500, supporting medical care and transport for horses with special needs. The Humane Society encourages qualified adopters to view the available horses and the public to help by sharing the program on social media. More information, applications, and donations are available at www.mardigrashorses.com and their dedicated Facebook page.
