Ten equine charities join forces to tackle shared welfare challenges

Experts from ten UK-based equine charities came together this month for an online workshop run by the National Equine Welfare Council (NEWC) and led by The Donkey Sanctuary. Speakers explored the veterinary, behavioural and practical considerations that support welfare-led decisions for equines in need, with the impact of the rising cost of living on horse and donkey keepers a central theme.

Hannah Bryer, head of welfare at The Donkey Sanctuary and a NEWC director, noted that charities are not immune from economic pressures: while demand for help is rising, capacity in charity care is becoming increasingly limited, and many organisations have had to adapt how they manage new admissions to protect the long-term welfare of animals already in their care.

For owners and breeders, the takeaway is encouraging rather than bleak. Charities such as Bransby Horses and The Donkey Sanctuary are actively pooling knowledge — from rehoming practice to balancing veterinary and behavioural care — so that the sector as a whole can support more equines with the resources it has. Anyone struggling with the cost of keeping a horse or donkey is encouraged to seek advice early, when charities have the most options available to help.