If you encounter a sick, injured, abandoned, or trapped horse and are concerned about its welfare, it is crucial to report only firsthand observations to official welfare organizations, such as those in the National Equine Welfare Council. Providing detailed information—including the horse’s description, location (using tools like What3Words), and your contact details—helps these organizations investigate effectively. Immediate dangers require urgent contact with local animal welfare groups or emergency services, while loose horses on roads should be reported to the police. Intervening directly by feeding or caring for the horse is discouraged, as it may cause harm or hinder long-term solutions.

Sharing welfare concerns or images on social media is strongly advised against because it can mislead the public, alert neglectful owners, and disrupt ongoing investigations. Welfare organizations emphasize that reports based on social media posts often overwhelm their resources with duplicate or outdated information, delaying critical responses. Instead, individuals who witness concerns firsthand should report directly to the appropriate organizations, allowing professionals to handle the situation legally and effectively while maintaining communication with owners when possible.