Winter Vet Bills & Running Costs

Winter is upon us, and with over 50 horses and ponies currently in our care, this is one of the most challenging times of year for our sanctuary.

Every animal that comes through our gates does so because they need help. Many arrive neglected, unwanted, or with nowhere else to turn. We don’t just rescue — we commit for life. Whether that means a permanent home with us or, for the very few suitable for rehoming, a carefully matched home on a strict contract that guarantees they can always return if they ever need us again.

This year, we took in horses and ponies who urgently needed our help — many of them abandoned or unwanted colts. On a worrying scale, this meant we were responsible for castration, microchipping, and passporting, ensuring these young horses were made safe, legal, and given a chance at a secure future.

The past year has placed enormous strain on our resources. After 12 years of use, all of our paddock fencing became irreparable and had to be completely replaced. Shortly after, our tractor failed beyond repair, and we were forced to trade it in and replace it so we could continue carrying out essential daily tasks such as delivering hay and water and managing muck removal.

To protect the welfare of the horses and ponies in our care, we had no choice but to use all of our emergency savings. That safety net is now gone — and winter has only just begun.

Our veterinary bills usually total around £20,000 each year, and this year we expect them to be higher than ever. Every day we receive bills that we are working hard to stay on top of, ensuring that no animal ever goes without the care they need.

Not one horse or pony who needed us was turned away. Every single one received their second chance — safety, care, and the time they needed to heal.

Even those who have gone on to have a “successful” and “happy ending” may need us again in the future if or when their adopters’ circumstances change. Our promise to them does not end when they leave — it lasts a lifetime.

Now, we are asking for your help.

Every donation, no matter how small, will directly support vital veterinary care, feed, bedding, and essential running costs through the harsh winter months ahead.

Thank you for helping us stand by the promises we made to every animal who trusted us enough to walk through our gates.

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