Equine charity appeals for carers to help ease welfare crisis

Equine charity appeals for carers to help ease welfare crisis

Southwest equine welfare charity The Mare and Foal Sanctuary is appealing to prospective horse owners to consider rehoming rather than buying a companion pony, to help save other equines in life-threatening situations.

The Sanctuary, which is currently at full capacity, is looking to rehome around 50 non-ridden ponies this year who would make exceptional companions for other horses. By offering one of these ponies a loving home on loan, carers will open up a space at the Sanctuary and extend a lifeline to another equine.

Head of Sanctuary Care Sally Burton says: "There are many horses and ponies in critical need of our help this winter, but until we have the land and resources to care for them responsibly, we simply can't bring all of them in. This highlights the urgent need for equine carers to rehome ponies on loan with our team's support and advice.

"While our ridden horses and those in training tend to be the most popular choice, the importance of companion ponies shouldn't be overlooked. As herd animals, all equines require companionship to thrive. In the wild, their natural instinct is to live in groups, and this social behaviour is crucial for their safety and physical and emotional well-being. The absence of a companion can lead to stress, loneliness, and challenging behaviours. We have many rescued ponies that have been rehabilitated and trained and are now looking for somewhere to live within a herd or as a companion to a single horse. They are gentle ponies with much life experience and social interaction to offer."

Welfare and Rehoming coordinator Gillian Gratton says: "Our Sanctuary at Home scheme gives ponies the chance to live in a home environment where they can get the one-to-one care they need, while still being supported and retaining life-long sanctuary with us. If the placement works well for all, carers keep their pony for as long as they choose, with low or no rehoming fees, no registration costs and potential help with veterinary costs for some conditions. They also have unlimited free access to advice and support, with training and care from our equine experts and the chance to connect with others also loaning ponies on the scheme.

"Many of our carers say the ponies become their own best friends, helping them to foster deeper connections and a real sense of wellbeing. The sheer joy of forming a bond with a pony, watching them interact with others, and caring for their needs can be very special. By rehoming a pony our carers are directly supporting the Sanctuary's mission and allowing us to rescue more horses and ponies in serious welfare situations.

"The Sanctuary relies entirely on donations and legacy gifts, and we are so grateful to all of our supporters for their kindness. Every contribution is crucial in helping us to rescue and support hundreds of horses and ponies, and make sure they receive the care and compassion they deserve."

There's more information on the charity's Sanctuary at Home scheme and the equines available at: https://mareandfoal.org/rehoming/#horses