HorseWorld faces £20,000 winter feed gap after year of extreme weather
HorseWorld is asking for public support after an exceptionally challenging year of weather has dramatically increased the cost of feeding more than 100 rescued horses and ponies in its care at a time when many people are finishing work ready for the Christmas season.
The charity has been rescuing and rehabilitating horses for over 70 years, says a combination of prolonged heavy rainfall followed by extended dry spells left its 180 acre site with almost no grass available for grazing. As a result, the charity was forced to begin feeding hay far earlier than usual, a situation typically only seen in mid-winter.
By early autumn, HorseWorld was feeding more than 500kg of hay every day to maintain the health of its animals, adding unexpected pressure to its winter budget.
HorseWorld grooms loading up hay to take to the fields.
“Hay is normally a supplementary feed at that time of year,” said Sarah Hollister, Head of Equine Welfare at HorseWorld. “This year it became essential far sooner than anyone could have anticipated, and that has had a major knock-on effect on our resources.”
The charity’s own hay production has also been heavily affected. Last year, HorseWorld harvested 87 large bales from its land. This year, just 22 were produced leaving the charity far more reliant on external suppliers at a time when hay is in short supply nationwide.
Prices have risen sharply, with large bales now costing up to £95 each, while smaller bales of Haylage have increased by nearly 100%. HorseWorld estimates the increase in feed costs alone will add nearly £20,000 to its winter bills.
“With more than 100 horses to feed every day, even small increases quickly add up,” said Sarah. “As we approach Christmas, our focus is on making sure there is enough feed in the barns to see every horse comfortably through the festive period and the colder months beyond.”
Many of the horses in HorseWorld’s care have complex nutritional needs, including mares rescued earlier this year while heavily pregnant after suffering severe neglect, and who are now supporting young foals.
“For many of these animals, this will be their first Christmas in a place of safety,” said HorseWorld CEO, Jo Coombs. “Ensuring they are well-fed is a simple but vital part of giving them stability and care.”
One of the mares rescued in the spring with her newborn foal. Image courtesy of Jo Hansford Photography
HorseWorld has launched its Feed the Herd Appeal, inviting supporters to help bridge the winter feed gap and ensure every horse in its care remains well-fed, warm and safe throughout the winter.
“Support from the public allows us to plan responsibly and continue providing consistent care,” said Jo. “At a time of year associated with generosity and looking after others, every contribution helps us make sure no horse goes without.”
For more information or to support the Feed the Herd Appeal, visit:
www.horseworld.org.uk/hay