Abandoned Horses Feel The Draft As Recession Deepens

Its 'horses for courses' as the recession deepens and more and more animals are abandoned, putting extra pressure on an equine charity in Co Antrim.

Crosskennan Lane Animal Sanctuary near Antrim is currently caring for more than 30 horses but its founder, Lyn Friel, (pictured) says the credit crunch is placing a severe strain on its volunteers and feed stocks.

The leading horse sanctuary has warned it is running out of room as more and more owners abandon their animals.

The feed bill at the sanctuary has soared with the horses needing more than 20 bales of hay every day and additional supplementary feeds.

"We are having to weather the storm for the sake of the horses," said Lyn Friel.

For every abandoned horse its not just rising feed costs either, but also veterinary bills.

Physical space is now running out too, with additional accommodation being rented and the sanctuary can only respond to the most urgent cases.

"We cannot possibly admit every horse, but we are determined to at least try to provide a solution that doesn't involve the mass slaughter of innocent horses," said the sanctuary's founder.

The latest plan is to offer advice to horse owners who are experiencing financial pressures.

The idea is to help people keep their animals by possibly reducing their feed costs without affecting the horses welfare.

"All we ask is that owners explore all the options before making a harsh decision about their horses," said Lyn Friel.

Meanwhile, the sanctuary serves a dual purpose both helping animals in need and in turn, helping people in need: "We are committed to playing an educational role in Northern Ireland too," said Lyn.

"All the animals in our care have been rescued from difficult, sometimes abusive, situations and through work, respect and compassion have learned to trust again.

"We feel that much can be learned from spending time with them and our volunteer schemes, youth programmes and training clinics are far reaching and highly regarded as a result," explained Lyn.

"At Crosskennan Lane Animal Sanctuary the animals are encouraged where possible to 'earn their keep' through contact with members of the community as the benefits of people having contact with animals has long been recognised.

"Study after study has shown that pets can provide psychological benefits for disabled, elderly, emotionally disturbed and traumatised individuals."

Meanwhile, the sanctuary is staging an event designed to promote responsible horse ownership.

In a workshop initiative, run by a recognised expert, Dr Helen Spence, those taking part will hear about the life cycle of the average horse and pony and discuss exactly why horses end up in rescue or, worse in slaughter yards.

The event will examine how horse owners and volunteers can 'make a difference' by understanding how - for example - to deal with the less than perfect horse and to take full responsibility for every horse in your care by discussing selling, retirement and euthanasia - the options and the issues.

It is on the 28th February, at 2.30pm.

(BMcC/JM)