Equine welfare charities are facing challenges due to the cost-of-living crisis, with World Horse Welfare reporting an increase in welfare cases involving owners with more than 10 horses. Redwings has seen a decline in rehoming figures, which is attributed to the cost-of-living crisis affecting potential adopters.

The RSPCA has reported a decline in reports of cruelty to equines over the past 10 years, but an increase in abandonments and horses taken into care since 2022. HorseWorld has seen a significant increase in reports made to the charity, with many owners struggling to make ends meet due to rising costs of everyday life.

HAPPA has noted a change in the type of help needed by owners, with more reaching out due to financial and medical difficulties. The charity has seen an increase in abandonment cases in recent years, which is believed to be a response to the cost-of-living crisis. The demographic of cases has shifted, and the demand for HAPPA’s services remains consistent.