An animal charity in Gloucestershire, the Red Horse Foundation, is facing a severe hay shortage following an exceptionally dry spring and summer that led to crop yields dropping by over 50%. This has caused panic among the local equestrian community, with charities and horse owners forced to source hay from distant suppliers at roughly double the usual cost. The foundation is appealing for donations to help feed its horses through the winter months.

Similarly, the Nailsworth Donkey Sanctuary is struggling financially due to the reduced hay supply, with their local supplier producing less than half the typical amount. To stretch their resources, the sanctuary has supplemented their feed with haylage and meadow hay but remains concerned about the longevity of their stock. Overall, the dry weather has created widespread difficulties for animal groups and owners in the region.