An overloaded transporter containing 26 horses and ponies was intercepted at Dover port, which we believe were destined for a slaughterhouse somewhere in Europe.
Only 19 of the vulnerable horses, who had been cruelling crammed onto the lorry, were declared to officials. It was also discovered that amongst the frightened group were pregnant mares and unhandled youngsters who had only recently been removed from their nursing mothers. The suffering of one horse was so severe that the kindest decision was to put her to sleep.
Sadly, some of these horses and ponies were probably much-loved family pets, sold with the best of intentions, but ending up in this living nightmare.
Five of the horses are heavily pregnant and one of these expectant mares is suffering from the painful hoof disease, laminitis.
These horses, ponies, colts and unborn foals are depending on World Horse Welfare to nurse them back to health and give them the lifetime of security that they richly deserve, a promise we make to every horse who comes into our care. But we can only do this with your help. We depend entirely on voluntary donations so please will you help them today?
We are aiming to raise £20,000 through this online appeal to help support the costs of our work rescuing, rehabilitating and rehoming horses in desperate need, just like these 26 horses intercepted at Dover.
If you can help by making a donation today to support our work, which includes campaigning for better laws and enforcement to stop this cruel trade, then together we can help many more horses.
Thank you!
