A group of equine charities are asking horse owners how they are being affected by the cost-of-living crisis.
A survey has been launched (Wednesday 21st December) to gauge how people are coping this winter.
Carolyn Madgwick, Chair of the National Equine Welfare Council (NEWC), said: “We want to establish how those of us who care for horses are dealing with the current economic climate.
“The questions being asked include things like ‘what changes, if any, have you seen in horse care costs in the last year’ and ‘what changes have you made, or are considering, to save money?’.
“NEWC intends to use the anonymised results to produce a report which will be shared with the public and, where relevant, the UK Government, Devolved Administrations and local authorities and will enable us to develop and publish guidance and advice to support those caring for horses across the UK.
“The survey should take no longer than 20 minutes to complete, please do fill it in if you can and help us to understand how we might be able to help you.”
The survey, which can be found here, runs from 21st December to 31st January. It is completely anonymous as no personal data will be collected. The BFBA encourages all farriers to share this link with their clients.
The research is being undertaken on behalf of NEWC by Redwings Horse Sanctuary, World Horse Welfare, Blue Cross, The British Horse Society, Oak Tree Animal Sanctuary and the British Farrier and Blacksmith Association.
A second survey has been developed for equine welfare establishments, who are being asked about their experience.
Advice for horse owners on Cutting Costs Not Care can be downloaded for free from the NEWC website.
