Horses are ‘not just for Christmas'

Anyone who owns a horse knows they are more than just great pets. These animals make fantastic companions and looking after one is a fulfilling and rewarding process. Although keeping equines can often be costly and time consuming, the vast majority of owners are delighted with their animals.

With the festive season upon us, The British Horse Society (BHS) is reminding people that a horse ‘is not just for Christmas'. Reportedly, at least 1,600 equines are abandoned each year in the UK.

Although buyers may leave them for a variety of reasons, many horses could be being left to fend for themselves due to their often expensive livery costs.

In a statement published on its website, the BHS criticised an email circulated by equine retailers Horsemart. Reportedly, the company sent a message stating that "horses under £500 make great Christmas presents".

The BHS feels this was "irresponsible" and also suggested Horsemart may have been exploiting the animals for Christmas.

Horses, similar to all pets, require specialised care from knowledgeable and skilled owners. If someone is thinking about purchasing a new steed, the BHS recommends they seek advice from a reputable horse rescue centre.

These experienced organisations should be able to provide potential purchasers with lots of helpful information, such as how to attach a horse rug and necessary equestrian clothing.

Photo © breyeschow via Flickr under Creative Commons Licence