Sanctuary News

(Pictured above, Granny and Senior Field Officer Leah.)

Three of the Icelandic horses taken into our care after a major multi agency welfare operation in Devon have made such impressive progress that they are now ready to seek new homes through our Sanctuary at Home scheme, freeing up vital space for more horses and ponies in need. 

With World Cup excitement building mid-tournament in the United States, Canada and Mexico, we created our own World Cup crowd pleaser here in Bovey Tracey, with local children’s kit designs stealing the spotlight.

We are entering the final stages of fitting out a new purpose-built welfare and education centre at Coombe Park near Totnes, dedicated to our founder.  

We are pleased to share some good news about the recent equine flu case at our Beech Trees site near Newton Abbot.  

The single affected horse was in quarantine throughout, the virus did not spread to any other horses or ponies, and the case has now fully resolved.  

The horse in question had further tests after the resolution of all symptoms, and these tests came back clear, showing that the virus is no longer active or a threat. The virus was fully contained due to our robust protocols, vaccinations, and the diligence of all staff and vets involved.  

On the advice of our vets, Tor Equine we can now safely lift the strict biosecurity measures we had in place for this horse.  

We are deeply saddened to share the death of Breeze, our 13 year old Dartmoor hill pony whose story as an orphaned foal, and the much loved photos of him with his giant teddy bear, captured hearts across the world and helped raise awareness of equine welfare, while shaping how we and our partners care for horses and ponies with complex needs. 

We want to let you know about a recent case of equine flu at our veterinary and welfare centre at Beech Trees near Newton Abbot.  

The horse had only just arrived with us and was in quarantine when our Sanctuary Care team noticed something was not quite right. Tests later confirmed equine flu. 

As the South West’s largest horse rescue charity, we are experiencing intense pressure on our equine welfare services, but have pledged lifelong care to a foal and her severely underweight dam who was not expected to survive. 

Frontline animal welfare staff from across the South West have come together at The Mare and Foal Sanctuary’s Upcott Park site near Holsworthy for a day of practical training focused on spotting and responding to equine welfare problems.

As Volunteers Week approaches (1–7 June), we are seeking new volunteer drivers to support us raise vital funds for rescued horses and ponies. Would you be interested in joining our friendly retail team and help keep our four charity shops running smoothly in Newton Abbot, Bovey Tracey, Brixham and Babbacombe?