We are a not-for-profit organisation that rescues horses and ponies who are suffering from abuse or neglect or who are in danger of suffering such abuse.
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Butterfield Farm, Salter Street, Earlswood
Solihull
B946BY
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The organisation was founded, quite unintentionally, in 1986 when Christine went with her friend Betty to Henley Market. There they came across eight five-month-old ponies, who were suffering from strangles, they were underweight, uncared for and about to be sold for slaughter. They promptly bought all eight and then set about finding somewhere to graze them, with the help of sympathetic friends and contacts. From that unlikely beginning, we have grown to our present level, with our main yard at Butterfield Farm with Stables, a Barn, Ménage, Grazing and we rent, or have use of, four other fields. The Rescue cares for approximately sixty horses, ponies and donkeys, at any one time. Horses come to us via other rescue organisations, the police and owners who have unwanted, often elderly, animals. We are also contacted by members of the public concerning animals who are suffering ill treatment. We will then liaise with the owners to either remove the horse or to ensure that conditions are made acceptable. Most horses that come to us will remain in one of our fields for their lifetime. Sometimes they are placed into new homes, subject to adherence to our strict conditions which include the absolute proviso that we remain the permanent owner and the horse will return to us if circumstances change. All such placements are regularly visited and monitored.
Some horses are lucky enough to find a special carer who will contribute each month towards their upkeep and will then look after them as if they were their own, but with the horse remaining in our fields under our supervision. We receive no regular funding. All our income derives from fundraising activities; mainly car boot sales and social events, plus contributions from supporters. We also have an 'adoption' scheme under which supporters make a donation and receive an adoption certificate and the right to visit "their" horse if they wish. (Please contact us if you would like more information). We have no salary or administrative costs. Our expenses are all directly attributed to the upkeep of the animals; field rent and maintenance, feed, veterinary and farrier charges and, on accasions, the cost of purchasing horses from dealers etc. It is a constant struggle to meet all the costs and provide all the required care, particularly during the winter months and we always welcome new supporters. If you would like to contribute to our organisation in any way, please contact Chris on 07973 121046.
