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Calls for change in the Year of the Horse
Image horse grazing
The RSPCA is calling for greater enforcement of microchipping and passport legislation.
Dramatic rise in equine rescues reported in 2013

With the Chinese New Year marking the start of the Year of the Horse, the RSPCA is calling for changes to improve equine welfare.

According to the charity, it saw a 69 per cent rise in the number of horses rescued or taken in during 2013, compared to the previous year.

David Bowles, RSPCA head of public affairs, said: "2013 wasn't a good year for horse welfare. We've been out to thousands of horses that have been left abandoned or fly grazed, many of which are the victims of the rising cost of feed and care combined with a drop in the price they can fetch at market.

"This means that irresponsible owners often leave their animals to breed indiscriminately and fail to provide them with even the most basic level of care."

The charity says it rescued, collected or took in 1,526 equines last year, compared to 901 in 2012. Cases in 2013 included a number of incidents involving multiple horses, some of which had been left without sufficient food and water or veterinary treatment, as well as other groups at risk from rising flood water.

Despite some grim figures, 2013 also saw the introduction of new legislation in Wales to tackle fly grazing and abandonment. The RSPCA has urged Westminster to introduce similar legislation to ensure the problem does not simply cross the border.

Mr Bowles added: "We still want to see greater enforcement of microchipping and passport legislation so we can identify those horses left to graze on other peoples' land."

The new Welsh law came into force last week, giving local authorities powers to tackle fly grazing and abandonment. The move has been welcomed by many equine charities, although there are concerns that it will lead to a rise in problems in England if Westminster does not take similar steps.

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Animal Medicines Amnesty returns this November

News Story 1
 Veterinary practices are being urged to help owners safely dispose of any unused and expired pet medicines - not just antibiotics - during November's Animal Medicines Amnesty.

Organised by the Responsible Use of Medicines Alliance Companion Animal and Equine (RUMA CA&E), the initative is supported by a range of cross-sector organisations.

Practices are encouraged to use the campaign to engage the whole practice team and raise awareness of the safe disposal of medicines with clients. Learn how your practice can get involved at rumacae.org.uk 

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APHA launches free virtual work experience programme

The Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA), in collaboration with Springpod, has launched a free virtual work experience programme, giving young people across the UK the chance to explore careers dedicated to protecting animal and plant health.

The on-demand programme offers a unique insight into career opportunities within APHA, showcasing how students can contribute to tackling some of the UK's most critical biosecurity and environmental challenges.

Designed for students aged 13 and over, the course includes more than 10 hours of engaging content featuring real-life industry insights, scenario-based challenges, and practical guidance on applying for jobs. To register for the course, visit the APHA website.