Burnley horse charity gives second chance to equines

Two abandoned Thoroughbreds in desperate need of veterinary assistance and care are now safe and have a second chance of a brighter future full of love and happiness, thanks to equine charity HAPPA (Horses and Ponies Protection Association), based in Burnley, Lancashire.

HAPPA’s mission to Give a Second Chance to equines through Rescue, Rehabilitation, Rehoming and Education is encompassed in this very story…

On a blustery autumnal day, the HAPPA Rescue Team and Equine Inspector set off to locate and bring to safety two Thoroughbreds that had been abandoned on two hundred acres of farmland. The landowner had followed all the correct lawful procedures as depicted in The Control of Horses Act 2015, ensuring both equines could be seized by HAPPA and taken to safety.

The landowner, who found the two horses abandoned, was concerned for their future. knowing they would not survive the harsh conditions on the moors throughout winter. The landowner acted responsibly by contacting HAPPA for help and expressed his relief and gratitude to the situation and said, “The whole rescue was very professional, what a relief that we were able to resolve the situation and ensure the two horses could get the help they so desperately need”.

With help from a local vet and an attending World Horse Welfare Field Officer, the two horses were found, both were lame and showed signs of severe neglect due to abandonment and lack of appropriate care. Immediate veterinary attention was sought without delay. After an initial veterinary examination pain relief was administered to ease the horses’ suffering; the pain relief ensured that they were able to travel comfortably and calmly.

Elizabeth Pharoah Equine Inspector, explains, “We are experiencing an increasing number of calls from concerned members of the public in relation to abandoned horses. Horses such as the two Thoroughbreds were seized due to the landowner lawfully following The Control of Horses Act. If you should find a horse abandoned on your land do not hesitate to get in touch so we can guide you through how to lawfully resolve the issue, to ensure we are able to intervene and therefore protect the welfare of any equine involved.”

The two Thoroughbreds have since been named Kady and Ace. Both have substantial health issues that are being treated and their progress is monitored closely by the Equine Care Team. Associated veterinary costs amounting to thousands of pounds will be funded by the Charity. It is likely that both horses had a racing or racing training background and therefore HAPPA can work collaboratively with the Retraining of Racehorses, utilising their Vulnerable Horse Scheme, a vital source of funding for vulnerable Thoroughbreds such as these poor souls, offering them the best chance of recovery.

Rachel Smith, HAPPA Equine Rehabilitation Manager says, “Kady, a 21-year-old mare, is underweight and has very small incisor teeth so her diet will need to be closely monitored, she is also experiencing lameness. She is on pain relief and a deep bedding system to ensure she remains comfortable. Initial x-rays and investigations show that there is no substantial damage to the internal structure of the hoof or musculoskeletal system, Laminitis was an initial concern. Kady will need regular remedial trimming and farrier attention.

Ace, a 6-year-old stallion, is in a less-than-ideal condition and has a retained testicle. This makes the veterinary procedure of castration particularly tricky. Ace will be admitted for veterinary surgery under general anesthetic as soon as he is fit and well enough. Alongside this Ace will also require farrier attention for the next twelve months to correct a hoof imbalance, his hooves are overgrown. The initial and ongoing veterinary and rehabilitation costs for these horses will be substantial.

The landowner was right to be concerned as Thoroughbreds are unable to keep condition in cold, wet, and wintery environments without the correct care. Both horses will now receive the best chance of recovery with the Charity. Bespoke rehabilitation plans are in place for Kady and Ace, addressing all their needs. I am hopeful that they will make a full recovery, and we can give them a second chance of a brighter future.”

HAPPA will continue to be a safety net for all horses in need. The Charity appeals to all landowners that find horses abandoned to get in touch for advice on how to act lawfully. Guidance on this can be found on the HAPPA Website. https://www.happa.org.uk/campaigns/the-control-of-horses-act-explained/

Should you wish to contribute to the associated veterinary costs involved in Kady and Ace’s immediate and ongoing care please consider a donation www.happa.org.uk/donate/