UK Horse Abandonment Crisis

As a Lancashire-based equine welfare charity, we at the Horses and Ponies Protection Association (HAPPA) urgently need your help this winter to raise vital funds to respond to a rapidly growing crisis – the abandonment of horses.

We are reaching breaking point. As demand for our services increases and costs continue to soar, we are calling on everyone who cares about equine welfare to help us raise £100,000. These funds are essential for us to continue responding to reports of horses, ponies and donkeys in distress this winter.

As the cost-of-living crisis continues to impact communities nationwide, we have seen a shift in the type of support being requested by horse owners. While we still receive reports of cruelty and neglect, more and more owners and landowners who genuinely want to do the right thing are reaching out to us for help.

Financial Impact

In the last six months alone, we have taken in twenty-four abandoned and unwanted equines. Sadly, the majority have arrived at our site, Shores Hey Farm in Burnley, Lancashire, requiring immediate veterinary intervention, alongside significant rehabilitation costs. Combined with rises in wages, utilities and supplier prices, these pressures are placing an immense strain on our long-term financial stability.

Our equine welfare costs are rising at an alarming rate. Excluding wage costs for our equine care team, we now require £2,000 per week just to maintain the exemplary standard of care for the forty-five equines currently undergoing rehabilitation with us.

Feed and bedding costs have risen by a staggering 34.34% compared to last year, while veterinary costs have increased by 11.5%. We continue to work tirelessly to source the best possible prices, but the rising number of abandonments—and the increasing severity of cases—are placing an overwhelming burden on our charity.

Amanda Berry, our Head of Equine Operations, explains:

“Times are hard for everyone right now, and we know it is a big ask to contribute in this financial climate. However, we must act to ensure we can keep the stable doors open at Shores Hey Farm. HAPPA has been saving equines since 1937; together we can ensure lives continue to be saved for many more years to come.

We see horses of all types, horses who once knew love, being abandoned and discarded like rubbish—left behind, un-microchipped, rejected, alone, and without food, shelter or care. Your donation will help us intervene, give them safety, veterinary care, nourishment and a second chance at life. Horses like Marble, Bruno and Maximus are alive today because of your support.”

Marble’s Story

Marble, now ten years old, had been bought as a companion horse. When the other horse left, she was simply forgotten—left in a field with little human or animal contact, unhandled and uncared for.

Thankfully, a member of the public noticed her situation and sought help. We brought Marble into our care to give her the chance she deserved.

A veterinary assessment revealed that she has limited vision in her left eye and suffered from sharp, painful teeth. After urgent dental treatment, she began her road to recovery. Due to her pink skin and sensitive eyes, she now requires a UV mask when outdoors to protect her from further damage.

Marble is finally safe. She has a dedicated equine care officer and wonderful public sponsors who adore her. She is no longer unwanted—she is cherished, protected and looking towards a brighter future with us.

Maximus & Bruno’s Story

Maximus and Bruno’s ordeal began when their owner disappeared without a trace, leaving them behind on rented land. For a while, the kind landowners did all they could to care for them, but eventually, their needs became too much. A concerned neighbour reached out to us, and we intervened immediately.

Our Equine Inspectors responded to the call and brought the pair into safety.

Both horses have now made a full recovery in our care. They are thriving, enjoying kindness, attention and the companionship of our team and the public. Both will soon be ready to find their forever homes through our HAPPA Loan Scheme.

Their journey is a stark reminder of the responsibilities of horse ownership. Abandoning animals not only leaves them vulnerable—it places enormous pressure on those trying to help. We are here to make sure no horse is forgotten, but we cannot do it alone.

What Happens If We Don’t Reach the Target?

Donations are our lifeline this winter. Without them, we may be forced to close the stable doors to abandoned, neglected and abused equines who need us the most.

Every contribution towards the £2,000 per week required for equine welfare is vital. Without this support, we simply cannot survive—and horses will be left to suffer in silence.

Let’s give them a voice together.

How to Donate

They Were Left Behind. Together, We Can Give Them a Second Chance.

Please donate if you are able to the Horse Abandonment Crisis Fund on Crowdfunder:
https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/horse-abandonment-crisis-fund

Or donate directly through our website: www.happa.org.uk