Concern Regarding Rise in Number of Equines Needing Farrier Attention

As one of the UK’s biggest equine welfare charities, 2023 has been a busy year for Bransby Horses.

In December there were 292 equines on site and over 607 in homes – and as of the end of October 2023 had rescued 119 and rehomed 83.

Sadly, the equine charity has seen a steep rise in cases involving equines in desperate need of farrier attention, along with a record number of abandoned horses.

Lack of finances were at the root of many cases, but horses being difficult to handle, coupled with owner ignorance, have been contributing factors given for hoof care falling below the basic level required under the Animal Welfare Act 2006.

Welfare manager Rachel Jenkinson said: “We’ve seen about 18 cases (of neglected hoof care) this year (2023), which is unprecedented for us. We’ve seen similar cases over the years but never this many and it’s concerning.

“We are working hard to develop relationships with other professionals and businesses to raise awareness of how Bransby Horses can support them with any welfare concerns they may see. Our priority will always be to work with owners to safe-guard the welfare of the equine.”

Registered farriers and details on the importance of using a registered legal farrier can be found at www.farrier-reg.gov.uk.

In October this year we admitted two ponies, signed over to us after the owner realised they could not provide the urgent care they needed.

Sadly, the only treatment option for them, after a full assessment from our vets and farrier, was euthanasia as the internal damage to their hoof structures, ligaments and tendons were irreversible.