HAPPA (Horses and Ponies Protection Association) is raising urgent alarm over the increasing abandonment of horses across the UK, exemplified by the recent rescue and euthanasia of an elderly pony named Spider. Found abandoned and suffering from multiple severe health issues, Spider’s case highlights the systemic failures behind equine neglect, including overbreeding, insufficient regulation, weak enforcement, and owners overwhelmed by rising costs. Despite legislative efforts, charities like HAPPA face overwhelming demand, limited resources, and operational challenges, with many horses at risk and rescue centers stretched to capacity.

The charity calls for comprehensive action involving responsible ownership, stronger enforcement of welfare laws, increased public awareness, and early intervention to prevent neglect escalating to abandonment. Spider’s story symbolizes the broader crisis and the need for systemic change to protect vulnerable horses. HAPPA emphasizes that while charities provide critical care, sustainable solutions require coordinated efforts from owners, authorities, and the public to ensure no horse suffers alone or forgotten.