An equestrian brand has disclosed the results of a report into how horse owners are coping during the cost-of-living crisis.
Harry Hall surveyed 3,343 equestrians in the UK in an online questionnaire covering key aspects of horse ownership and care and how owners are navigating the challenges of the current economic situation.
More than 87 percent of those surveyed believe owning and caring for a horse is getting harder.
The survey also revealed that in order to afford their horse one in three (36 percent) horse owners have had to alter their monthly food budget, more than a quarter (28 percent) have given up maintaining and running their car, and almost a quarter (24 percent) are forgoing dental treatment.
Personal sacrifices
Louise Biebly from East Yorkshire is one of those to have sacrificed dental appointments to fund her horse, Rupert.
“Rupert is my world and my family. Looking after him is my number one concern and affording him is my second,” said Louise. “I’ve definitely noticed that costs across horse ownership have gone up.
“Personal things like going to the dentist and other general expenses have been put on hold and I will always cut my own costs and make personal sacrifices first. Rupert will never go without.
“Rupert is the one constant thing in my life that keeps me happy and although the cost of things rising can mean feeling the pinch, he is my priority.”
Abandonment epidemic
The financial challenges associated with owning horses has contributed to a rise in abandonment cases with many equine charities struggling to cope with the influx of deserted equines and the increases in the cost of living.
Your Horse reported when the Horse and Ponies Protection Association (HAPPA) took in these two colts, who were removed from a herd in order to end the breeding cycle and help the owner who was struggling to cope with the number of horses she owned.
Earlier this week, Your Horse published the story of two coloured cobs who had to be taken into HAPPA’s care after their owner vanished, abandoning them in poor health on rented land.
“The results of the inaugural Harry Hall Horse Census reveals what has been felt across the community for some time and shows the lengths equestrians are going to in the midst of the cost-of-living crisis that is impacting everyone,” said Liz Hopper, managing director at Harry Hall.
“Nearly a quarter of horse owners are reducing energy consumption in their homes to prioritise their horses’ care, while 88 percent have given up holidays altogether. Perhaps most concerning, a third of equestrians are cutting back on their own food to meet horse care expenses.
‘Real challenges’
“These statistics aren’t just numbers — they represent real challenges facing our community,” continued Liz.
“The census has made it clear that there are areas across the equestrian sector that require immediate attention and improvement to help ensure that all horses and riders are supported throughout their journey.”
World Horse Welfare has set up a support service entitled Help for Horse Owners which offers skilled guidance, advice and support for horse owners who are struggling to care for their horses. For more information click here.
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