Major charity collaboration safeguards welfare of dozens of rare-breed horses
In an exceptional collaboration, we have worked alongside the RSPCA and World Horse Welfare to lead a 15-month operation to protect 70 rare-breed horses and foals in Devon.
Concerns were raised by members of the public in May 2024, which prompted action from The Mare and Foal Sanctuary and World Horse Welfare. Welfare officers found a number of semi-feral herds of Icelandic horses. There was unmanaged breeding, with pregnant mares living alongside fighting colts and stallions. Some were found with life-threatening injuries. High worm burdens, especially among young horses, posed a major concern, with some random samples showing levels in the thousands. Excessive worms can lead to malnutrition, poor growth, colic, and other health problems, making it crucial to manage parasite control to keep the horses healthy and thriving.
The rescue
We worked together with the RSPCA across several sites in Devon. As the owner cooperated, horses were signed over in stages over several months to the three charities.
Two additional charities, The Donkey Sanctuary and Redwings Horse Sanctuary, supported the operation with extra transport, equipment and expertise. Blue Cross also stepped in at the conclusion of the case with an offer to rehome some of the horses. The entire process was a vet-led, multi-agency effort adhering to strict codes of practice upheld by all partners. Injured horses and those deemed most at risk by the vets were removed first, followed by mares and foals in need of specialist care, then stallions. Healthy mares and foals were taken last. By the end of summer 2025, all horses had been safely removed.
Welfare at the heart
Throughout, the focus remained on achieving the best possible welfare outcomes for the equines, demonstrating how teamwork and dedication can make a real difference in safeguarding their wellbeing.
We have united in a message encouraging all equine owners who may be struggling to come forward and seek help.
A safe haven at last
Leah Brock, Senior Field Officer, described the operation as a true achievement of collective effort. ‘I am deeply relieved that all horses involved in this case have now been safely removed’ she said. ‘It has been truly humbling to witness the way each charity stepped forward without hesitation, offering their time, resources, and expertise to ensure these equines received the care they needed. The commitment shown to alleviating potential suffering has been nothing short of inspiring. This operation demanded significant manpower and perseverance, often in challenging weather conditions. I am incredibly proud of the role we’ve played in bringing this case to a positive conclusion.’
We’re currently caring for six horses and three foals. They will have lifelong sanctuary with us and we’ll be sharing more about their stories soon.
If you’d like to make a donation to help us care for these equines, and others just like them, please click the button below.
We would also love your help to name one of our Icelandic foals. You can submit a name using the link.
