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.
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.
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.
Sadly, there are many other reasons a horse may end up in need. Sometimes we find horses who have had loving owners, but something has happened resulting in them being unable to care for their horse. This may be through the death of the owner, or diagnosis of a terminal illness, or perhaps a difficult financial situation.
In addition to receiving calls from concerned members of the public, we are also contacted by people who, despite their desperate situations, still want to do the best for the beloved horse. If you are seeking advice to to find a home for your own equine, please email welfare@horseworld.org.uk or call 01275 893022.
Charlie the little Shetland pony rescued in 2020 with painfully overgrown feet and suffering from laminitis. Today, he is fully recovered and working on our Discovery programme.
Twiglet rescued in 2015 after he was found collapsed at the side of the road with horrific injuries. Now, he is thriving in a loving loan home.
Buddy rescued in 2011 weighing less than a third of his ideal body weight - so weak he couldn't stand or lift his head off the ground. Fast forward to today, he is a happy, healthy pony living in the HorseWorld herd.
Severn Up rescued in 2012 found collapsed on a river bank - he was weak, shivering and starving. Now, he is enjoying being a ridden horse in a loving loan home.