The Horse Trust launches rehoming scheme in response to credit crunch

The Horse Trust launches rehoming scheme in response to credit crunch

05 October 2009: The Horse Trust today launched a rehoming scheme in response to demand from desperate horse owners affected by the credit crunch.

The charity has seen a large increase in enquiries from cash-strapped owners who need to rehome their horse, yet at the same time has had to close the doors of its sanctuary due to a drop in public donations. This is the first time in its 123 year history that the charity has got involved with rehoming horses.

The charity's new rehoming scheme will focus on retired, unridden horses from any background.

"We have been receiving so many calls from people who are desperate to rehome their horse that we wondered what we could do to help," said Paul Jepson, Chief Executive and Veterinary Director of The Horse Trust. "Owners simply can't find anyone who is willing to take on an older horse, so euthanasia is often the only option they have. We hope this scheme will give owners another option and will give many older horses the opportunity for the secure and happy retirement they deserve."

Due to limited resources, the charity will primarily consider horses and homes within a 50 mile radius of the sanctuary. All horses and potential homes will be visited to assess their suitability and the charity will regularly visit the rehomed horse to ensure it is receiving an appropriate standard of care.

The first horse to be rehomed through this scheme was Nemo, a 15-year-old Greater Manchester Police horse. Nemo, a 16.2hh chestnut gelding, had developed degenerative joint disease in his front feet, which meant he had to be retired from the police force. Nemo has been taken in by Annabel Gilson, 28, and her partner Grant Cocklin, 40, who live in Wrotham Heath, Kent.

"We already have three ponies, but have plenty of space so wanted to get another horse. Rather than buying a horse, I wanted to rehome one as there are so many horses that need a home," said Annabel.

Nemo arrived at Annabel's house a few weeks ago and she is already smitten with him. "He is so well-behaved - I'm used to my naughty little ponies, but he's as good as gold. He's also so calm, the only thing that has spooked him so far are our chickens," said Annabel.

Nemo has settled in well, and has already befriended one of her other ponies. "He has already paired up with my old mare Ginger - she's latched onto him and they are really enjoying spending time together with my other ponies.”

Chief Inspector Lynn Roby, Head of GMP Mounted and Dog Units, said this is a well deserved retirement for Nemo after a demanding work life.

"Nemo has worked in every demanding situation you can think of in GMP. He has policed many 'derby' matches between ManchesterCity and United, guarded the Government when they have had their party conferences and worked on many demonstrations in ManchesterCity centre. He has also done lots of community work and visited schools and patrolled crime hot spots to deter burglars," said Chief Inspector Roby.

Roby says The Horse Trust rehoming scheme gives GMP the security it needs for its retired horses due to the regular checks the charity carries out.

"I think Nemo is very lucky to have found a place on The Horse Trust rehoming scheme as this gives him a new lease of life, a loving retirement home but also as important, the security we need for our horses in these difficult financial times. We know The Horse Trust will always be there to check on his welfare and ensure his wellbeing," said Roby.

For more information on The Horse Trust scheme, visit < http://www.horsetrust.org.uk/The-Horse-Trust-Rehoming-Scheme/>.