Max leads the way at horse welfare training day
He’s done it again! Our fantastic full-sized, horse mannequin, Max, played a key role in a recent specialist training day at our Honeysuckle Sanctuary. This practical training event, held in collaboration with the British Animal Rescue and Trauma Association (BARTA), was one of three large animal rescue events across the UK, attended by newly qualified vets.
Crowdfunded through the kindness of our incredible supporters and purchased by us last year, Max has become an invaluable asset for our training efforts, helping our staff develop essential skills in equine welfare and rescue. His impact goes beyond our charity, as he has been loaned to other equine organisations to promote best practices in horse and rider rescue scenarios.
BARTA, known for its expertise in horse welfare training, provided essential knowledge and skills to the attendees, enhancing their ability to deliver effective care in rescue situations. The day included practical demonstrations, allowing delegates to experience the challenges of real rescue scenarios firsthand. Using a horsebox and tractor, vets were encouraged to take initiative and gain the hands-on experience vital for their future roles. BARTA’s Director, Jim Green said: “Veterinary professionals play an important role alongside emergency service responders when communities, including their animals, need help. This foundation course helps vets understand how the emergency services structure their response and the way through which vets are seamlessly integrated into that operating model. Additionally, techniques that are internationally recognised for animal rescue are practised and discussions around the best plan for the equine casualty in a range of scenarios. We know from experience that this builds confidence and professional knowledge from both sides. We are really grateful to partner with The Mare and Foal Sanctuary who provide an exceptional regional venue from which to host training”
Richard Frost from Tor Equine Vets, who partnered with us for this event, noted, “The BARTA training is excellent and should give them real confidence for when they are thrown into these potentially stressful situations. It’s been a fantastic day helping to teach this group of recently qualified vets about what their role would be in a large animal rescue.”
Our Welfare and Rehoming Coordinator, Gillian Gratton, says: “It’s crucial that those working in equine welfare have access to the best training available, and partnering with BARTA helps us achieve that. The practical demonstrations using the horsebox and tractor truly brought the training to life, allowing vets to apply what they learned in real-world scenarios.”
At The Mare and Foal Sanctuary, we remain committed to promoting best practices in equine welfare through collaborative training initiatives. This event not only equipped attendees with vital skills but also strengthened the bonds within the equine welfare community.