Horse Rescue

How do you come across horses or ponies in need?

We are usually notified by concerned members of the public who has seen a horse or pony that they feel needs attention. There can be many reasons why a caller may have a concern about a particular horse or pony.  These reasons can range from an underweight or overweight horse or pony; they might be concerned about the environment it is kept in i.e. can injure itself or others; it might be injured or ill in some way.  Whatever the reason for concern a full horse report is taken over the phone.  The caller is given a case number should they wish to call back at any time and follow up on their call.

All information provided is treated in confidence. At no stage is information passed on to a third party without consent.  Given we are all volunteers and cover the whole of Victoria we do our best to visit the horse or pony within seven days – should the caller feel it cannot wait that long we generally advise them to call the RSPCA.

On our initial visit a trained PHHWV Representative goes out and assesses the horse or pony on a case-by-case basis.  Our help can range from offering advice on care and feeding required advice on euthanasing should the horse or pony no longer able to lead a happy healthy life.  We might offer the option to surrender the horse or pony to us should they feel they can no longer look after the horse or pony.  We only offer the option of surrendering to us providing we feel the animal can be rehabilitated and lead a happy and health life with minimal stress.  If the Representative cannot locate the owner on the day a note is left asking them to make contact – providing the horse or pony is not suffering. If the horse or pony is suffering the RSPCA is called immediately.  If no contact is made as a result of a note being left the Representative may continue to monitor the horse or pony.  However if the situation worsens and offers of help are still refused the case is referred to the RSPCA.

Some cases involve many follow up visits and others can be dealt with on the spot and only require the initial visit.

Many cases we tend to are what we like to call “borderline cases” whereby the situation is not ideal but the horse is in okay condition. Most of the time the situation improves with some advice and there is no need to involve authorities like the RSPCA.

Can Project Hope Horse Welfare Victoria take horses or ponies?

PHHWV has no legislative powers under which to seize and rehabilitate horses: rescue is entirely dependent on an owner's agreement to surrender their animal.  In consequence, PHHWV often provides feed, rugs and veterinary care on site until a satisfactory resolution is achieved.  On occasions we are required to work closely with the RSPCA, local rangers and the Victorian Department of Primary Industry.

What can I do if I am concerned about a horse or pony, but not 100% sure?

The first thing you can do is read the PHHWV Info Note [Suspected Equine Neglect].
If after ready this you think after reading this that there is cause for concern please give us a call.