Look at the realities before you set up a Horse sanctuary
| Look at the realities before you set up a Horse sanctuary Sadly, when it comes to equine rescue, love is not enough. Horses, ponies and donkeys need adequate stabling and land. The cost of feed, bedding, rugs, farriery and vet services, plus insurances, for example, can very quickly run into tens of thousands. |  |
However, if the difficulties do not put you off and you are determined to open a sanctuary, then for your sake, and for that of your future equine dependants, it is crucial that you first find out whether you are equal to the challenges you will face.
Volunteer at one of your small local rescue centres for at least 2 years. Not only will they be grateful for your help, you will be able to see if you can cope with the physical and emotional challenges it will present.
Aim to raise money on their behalf and see how much you have been able to raise by the end of two years. The ability to conjure money up, and to motivate others to raise funds, will be essential.
Make arrangements to visit as many rescue centres, large and small, as you can find. Ask the manager and staff questions about their job. Tell them what you are planning to do and ask their advice.
 Akira was dumped in the back streets of Swansea as a foal and rescued by Voices for Horses. He needed veterinary care and gelding | Do your research! Look into all the rules and regulations. For example: - If members of the public or volunteers visit your property you need public liability insurance. Be realistic: What facilities will you have if you bring in an animal that unbeknown to you has a highly contagious illness like strangles or is in foal? Can you cope with the suffering and often the death of animals? How will you handle the disposal of bodies? How are you going to pay the bills? Are you fit and well enough to work 7 days a week, sometimes without sleep for 36 hours straight when an animal needs nursing through the night and you are let down by a member of staff or a volunteer. |
Being brutally honest is the very least the animals will need from you. You will not be able to help them and indeed will make things even worse for them if after 12 months you need rescuing yourself. You must establish if you have the moral fibre to turn away the most deserving cases if it stretches your resources too far and harms the animals already in your care.
If you truly wish to pursue setting up a sanctuary - become thoroughly familiar with the rescue industry first.
Copyright: Voices for Horses 2009
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Added on: 23/04/09.
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