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Help Sought for Rescued Horses
Groom Clare running with horse Lulu in paddock (picture courtesy of the RSPCA).
The RSPCA is seeking new owners for 17 of the horses rescued from horse dealer James Gray’s farm near Amersham, Buckinghamshire, in January 2008.

More than 100 horses, ponies and donkeys were removed from horrific conditions at Spindle Farm.  
 
Many of the animals had little food or dry bedding and were crammed into pens, fetlock (ankle) deep in faeces. Other horses had simply been left to die where they fell, others were burned on bonfires, and there was a pile of bones and a skull against an outbuilding.
 
Since then the horses have been lovingly cared for by the RSPCA, The Horse Trust, Redwings and World Horse Welfare. 
 
So far the case has cost the RSPCA £2.3million in legal fees, veterinary bills and the animals’ on-going care. The other charities have footed the bill for the horses they are looking after and are making separate arrangements for their future care2.
 
Now the court case and appeal are finally over, the RSPCA is beginning the search for permanent new homes for horses in its care that are ready to go to new owners. 
 
If you think you have got what it takes to offer a permanent new home to one of these horses please visit www.rspca.org.uk/amersham and complete the application form.
 
RSPCA equine rehoming officer Sally Learoyd said: “These horses have been through a terrible ordeal and we need to find extra special permanent homes for them. We’re looking for patient, experienced owners who have the facilities, time, knowledge and money needed to care for the horses for the rest of their lives. These horses are mostly youngsters, so potential adopters will need to be able to offer a long- term commitment.
 
“The horses are of the type you might expect to find on a dealer’s yard – mostly cob and Shetland types. Some were young, some ancient, some were sound and some wrecked. They were all sick and sorry and in desperate need of our help. Their rehabilitation has been a fascinating journey to witness and a testament to the bravery and patience of horses.”
 

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Survey launched to investigate EHV

News Story 1
 Zoetis has launched a new survey to identify management techniques for Equine Herpes Virus (EHV).

EHV is a contagious, airborne virus that can cause respiratory problems and severe diseases in horses and ponies. It spreads among horses over short distances, direct contact and through shared equipment.

The survey will explore current knowledge and management practices with EHV in the UK. It is quick to complete and participants could win one of 10 equine first aid kits.

Complete the survey here

Click here for more...
News Shorts
WSAVA launches pet travel guidance factsheet

A new pet travel guidance factsheet for veterinary professionals and caregivers has been developed by the WSAVA in collaboration with the World Veterinary Association.

The Dog and Cat Welfare During Transport factsheet provides step-by-step guidance for all stages of a journey, from pre-travel checklists to post-travel care.

Brachycephalic breeds or animals prone to travel-related anxiety are given special focus in this guide, which also provides links to IATA container regulation and WSAVA vaccination guidelines.