Horse Rescue – together we can make a difference
‘
An estimated 75% to 85% of all race horses are bought by known Kill Buyers destined for slaughter. Australian Government figures state that 30,000 – 40,000 horses are slaughtered each year in Australia. These horses are mostly fit and healthy. Australian horse slaughter is a multi million dollar industry.
The export abattoirs require a certain standard of meat quality, and so prefer young healthy horses in good body condition. It is estimated that close to 60% of the horses killed each year are under the age of 7.
Kangaroo Valley Horses are approached by race horse trainers and also by horse owners no longer able to care for their horses. The question asked is, are we able to save the lives of these horses destined for slaughter?
How can we make a difference? It is vital that each horse rescued is appropriately looked after, meeting their daily needs. They require re-training, grooming, a constant fresh water supply, suitable feed along with regular hoof trimming, vaccinations, annual dental visits and sometimes veterinary attention.
Some rescue horses respond beautifully to training in Natural Horsemanship methods by the Kangaroo Valley Horses instructors and trainers. Others are simply permitted to live out their days on the peaceful Riverstone property. Rescue horses have the opportunity, after re training, to be adopted to the best possible homes.
Rescue Options
- Volunteer Days. Help Kangaroo Valley Horses care for the daily needs of the rescue horses. Volunteer your time to groom, feed and help rehabilitate the rescue horses under the guidance of our instructors. Volunteer Days run at regular intervals throughout the year. Click CALENDAR OF EVENTS for upcoming dates.
- Sponsor a Horse. The average estimated cost to care for each rescue horse is $3,000 per year at cost. Or, $250 per month, $58.00 per week, or $8.00 per day. Suggestion: Why not muster up a friend to sponsor a horse together funding $4.00 per day each, or $2.00 each per day for a small group of 4 horse rescuers? Each sponsor will receive updates on the health and progress of your chosen horse.
- Or, Make a donation. No amount is too big or small. All donations go directly towards the cost of caring for a rescue horse enabling Kangaroo Valley Horses to take on the continuing responsibility and duty of care of these beautiful horses. Donations go directly towards, feed & paddock management, veterinary and farrier costs, worming, dental and medical costs when required.
- Horse Adoption. Recued horses may become available for adoption to suitable homes. Some rescue horses may be ridden after re-training, others will be paddock companions and not to be ridden. If you are interested in adopting a rescue horse, you will be required to provide information concerning the housing of the horse and the experience of the cares. The adoption fee varies for each individual horse.
To make an enquiry or to donate to the Horse Rescue program please complete the form below or Contact us now!
To enquire about a particular Rescued Horse please click on What's On for up to date information.
Kangaroo Valley horses run regular Equestrian Clinics providing detailed information on Horse Care and Rescue. These clinics are open to adults and children of all ages. Please click on Equestrian Clinics for more information
