When you adopt a horse, bringing your new horse home won't be any different than if you bought a horse from a breeder. Your horse will be a little nervous, a little anxious and will need some time to adjust to his new surroundings.

Horses are psychologically wired to be prey animals and until they know for 100% certain that they won't be harmed by a person, place or thing, they will be a little wary and skittish around new people and new places. When you first bring your horse home, let him investigate his new home. Horses like to bump, sniff, and even taste objects around them to get a feel for how safe they are. Let him do so - it will make the settling in process a lot faster.

Next, spend time with your horse frequently. Bring treats (if that's part of your personal training regimen) and start training immediately. Work with basic ground manners and teach him how what behavior is expected. Remember that your horse is a rescued horse and may not have known the exclusive kindness of humans in his past. You will have to show and prove you can be trusted. Soft words, stroking and the occasional treat (unless he becomes aggressive seeking them) will prove quickly to your horse that you are a companion and not going to hurt him.

Lots of attention, positive training techniques and love will enable you to have a great companion animal that most likely had a rough life until he was rescued and found a great new home.