Our dedicated welfare team regularly take calls from members of the public who are worried about the welfare of a horse, pony or donkey in their local area. In many cases, concerns can be resolved with advice and support over the phone. However, when urgent action is required, our team will carry out a welfare visit to assess the situation in person.
Charlie the Shetland pony rescued in 2020 with painfully overgrown hooves and suffering with a condition called Laminitis. Today, he is a much-loved member of our Discovery team.
Although we do not have the legal power to seize an equine in distress, we work in collaboration with organisations such as the RSPCA, local authorities and the police to ensure that horses in crisis are protected. When a horse is in a desperate situation, needing to be seized and removed immediately, HorseWorld are there to provide that safety, expert care and guarantee a safe home for life. We work in close partnership with other equine charities such as World Horse Welfare, Redwings and the Mare and Foal Sanctuary to assist with rescues and safely house horses in need when others are at capacity.
Twiglet rescued in 2015 found at the side of a busy main road with horrific injuries. Now, he is thriving in a loving loan home with Welfare Groom, Becky.
The concerns we receive at HorseWorld can range from an elderly horse left without adequate shelter, to the heart-breaking sight of a starving horse unable to stand. Whatever the case, our priority is always the welfare of the animal. We will offer practical advice, escalate the matter when necessary, and act quickly to prevent further suffering.
Buddy rescued in 2011 weighing less than a third of his ideal body weight and so weak he couldn't stand or lift his head off the ground. Over a decade on, he is a happy and healthy pony living in the HorseWorld herd.
Not every horse in need has been deliberately neglected. Sometimes, devoted owners face life-changing challenges such as serious illness, bereavement, or financial hardship, that make it impossible to continue caring for their horse. In these cases, HorseWorld offers a compassionate safety net, ensuring that thier much-loved equines continue to receive the care they deserve.
Severn Up rescued in 2012 found collapsed on a river bank - he was weak, shivering and starving. Now, he is enjoying life as a strong, ridden horse in a loving loan home.
Alongside public welfare concerns, we are also contacted by responsible owners who, despite facing difficult circumstances, want the very best for their horse, pony, or donkey. If you are seeking advice or need help finding a safe home for your equine, please get in touch:
📧 welfare@horseworld.org.uk
📞 01275 893022