Spider’s Story: Why Horse Abandonments Are Rising and Why HAPPA Is Calling for Change
DATE
November 13, 2025
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Spider’s Story: Why Horse Abandonments Are Rising and Why HAPPA Is Calling for Change
Across the UK, equine welfare charities are facing a growing crisis: an alarming rise in abandoned horses. At HAPPA, we see the real-world consequences of this every day and few cases have been as heartbreaking, or as revealing, as the story of a small elderly pony who came into our care this autumn. We called him Spider.
Spider’s story is difficult to tell, but it is one that must be heard.
A Pony Found Alone and Abandoned
Spider was discovered on private land after being left without an owner, a past, or even a microchip to identify him. Under the Control of Horses Act 2015, when no owner stepped forward, he legally became the responsibility of the Horses and Ponies Protection Association.
Our Inspectors scanned for a microchip, hoping for a clue to his background but there was nothing. With no medical history, no known family, and only the faint signs that he had once been handled, Spider was transported to our Shores Hey Farm for urgent assessment.
What we found was devastating.
A Lifetime of Pain, Hidden Until It Was Too Late
Spider was elderly and severely unwell. His veterinary examination uncovered multiple serious conditions:
- Advanced Cushing’s disease
- Laminitis and profound lameness
- COPD and asthma
- A worsening eye abnormality
- Respiratory distress and chronic pain
Each diagnosis was painful to hear, but together, they painted a tragic picture. Spider’s suffering had been long-standing, progressive, and severe. Despite stabilisation attempts, pain relief, and expert care, it soon became clear he was beyond recovery.
Amanda Berry, Head of Equine Operations at HAPPA, explains:
“Spider’s case was one of the most complex and heart-wrenching we’ve faced. As each day passed, new complications emerged. Our role is always to do what is best for the horse, and in Spider’s final days, prolonging life would have meant prolonging pain. Euthanasia was the kindest and most humane option.”
Spider spent his final days surrounded by warmth, compassion and dignity, something he should have had throughout his whole life.
A Growing Crisis in the UK
Sadly, Spider’s situation is far from unique.
Across the country, equine charities are issuing the same warning: abandonments are increasing and rescue centres are stretched to their limits.
- HAPPA has seen a 33% rise in equines seized from owners unable to cope and 40% of these involve abandonment.
- World Horse Welfare reports over 6,000 horses currently at risk of neglect or suffering.
- Redwings documented a dramatic rise in abandonment reports even a decade ago, and the numbers continue to climb.
- The multi-charity report Britain’s Horse Problem highlights ongoing issues: overbreeding, weak enforcement, under-resourced owners, and overwhelmed rescue centres.
This isn’t just a spike, it’s a systemic issue.
Why Is This Happening?
Many factors are driving the crisis:
- The rising cost of feed, veterinary care, and general upkeep
- Overbreeding and irresponsible ownership
- Insufficient enforcement of existing legislation
- Owners struggling financially or emotionally
- A lack of early support or intervention
Some owners feel they have no option but to abandon a horse, but no animal should ever be left to suffer.
Sarah Arthur, HAPPA’s CEO, says:
“Spider’s story shows what happens when the system fails. Charities like ours step in when owners can’t or won’t, but we are not miracle workers. We must work together. Owners, charities, the public and policymakers, to stop horses falling through the cracks.”
How We Can Prevent More Cases Like Spider’s
HAPPA is calling for action, and everyone can play a part:
- Promote Responsible Ownership
Horse ownership is a lifelong commitment. When circumstances change, rehoming, early support or speaking with welfare charities is always better than abandonment.
- Strengthen Enforcement
Local authorities need the resources and capacity to enforce welfare laws consistently.
- Raise Public Awareness
The more people understand the signs of suffering and the scale of the crisis, the more likely horses like Spider are to be reported early, before it’s too late.
- Support Equine Charities
Donations, sponsorships, and volunteering help rescue centres continue their work. Without public support, charities will eventually be unable to cope with demand.
- Intervene Early
If you or someone you know is struggling to care for an equine, seek help before neglect becomes abandonment.
Spider’s Legacy
Spider may have arrived at HAPPA alone and in pain, but he did not leave this world unnoticed. By sharing his story, we honour his life and shine a light on a crisis that can no longer be ignored.
His legacy is a call to action, to protect horses, support welfare charities and ensure no equine is abandoned or left to suffer in silence again.
If you want to help us continue rescuing horses like Spider, please consider supporting HAPPA through donation, sponsorship, or by spreading awareness.
Together, we can create a future where every horse is safe, cared for, and valued.
