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The report highlights that National Equine Welfare Council members took in 186 horses , ponies and donkeys from struggling sanctuaries or rescue centres in 2019 .
Findings from the British Veterinary Association revealed that almost one in five equine vets dealt with firework-related injuries to a horse in 2018 .
Nic de Brauwere MRCVS , Chair of the National Equine Welfare Council and Head of Welfare at Redwings said : “ We call on the Government to make the most of this opportunity to create a new vision for welfare that really puts the animals at the centre . We want to see a strategy that accounts for more than just their basic needs but also focuses on those things that can improve their quality of life and well-being so they have a positive experience in all their dealings with us .”
Chris Sherwood , Chief Executive of the RSPCA , said : “ We are hoping to see big announcements for animal welfare this week and this year provides a once-in-a-generation opportunity to redefine our relationship with animals - for the benefit of us all .
“ The Covid pandemic has laid bare the inextricable link between people , planet , animals , food and health . We are more aware than ever how the way we live our lives impacts climate change and biodiversity .
“ Piecemeal legislation is no longer an option ; we need the Government to provide a clear vision and direction for animal health and welfare through a cohesive and comprehensive new strategy . From right across the animal welfare sector , we have come together to amplify our voices on behalf of animals .”
Chris Burghes , CEO of Blue Cross , said : “ Blue Cross is pleased to work alongside such esteemed animal welfare organisations to amplify a voice for pets and legislation to protect them in the upcoming Queen ’ s Speech .
“ The Queen ’ s Speech is a vital opportunity for the government to really set out their stall on their commitment to animal welfare and protection , a concern not only for charities but we know for the general public also .”
Chris Wainwright , Chief Executive , Brooke Action for Working Horses and Donkeys , said : “ We all have a role to play in how we live alongside and create a better life for animals . This includes working animals like horses , donkeys and mules , who provide a livelihood for so many people and have some of the strongest bonds with their owners .
“ It is absolutely vital that all animals are recognised as sentient beings , and that a rigorous approach to improving animal health and welfare is recognised not just for its benefit to them , but also for its connection to human health .”
Jeanette Allen , CEO of The Horse Trust , said : “ There is no doubt we are stronger with one voice and this incredible collaborative effort could effect very real change to government policy and future legislation that protects animals . The Horse Trust is very proud to have taken part and contributed our expertise .”
Sarah Jane Williamson , Chief Executive , Mare and Foal Sanctuary said : “ The legislation recommended in this paper would enable equine welfare organisations to intervene sooner and more strongly in an advisory and educational capacity , and local authorities to carry out enforcement interventions sooner , reducing the number of cases that become pernicious and costly to resolve through public prosecution .”
Lynn Cutress , CEO of Redwings , said : “ We have always claimed to be a nation of animal lovers and we know that by and large it ’ s still true , if only from the sheer number of letters received by our MPs on issues of equine and animal welfare from the public . That ’ s why it has been so crucial to see the animal welfare sector unite on this document , and it ’ s vital that we continue to work together to get it right for the animals that mean so much to us .”
The coalition stressed that to be successful , enforcement must be a statutory obligation under any legislation . Furthermore , the effectiveness of existing and new laws must be more robustly and regularly reviewed to ensure they are achieving their intentions .
The coalition comprises 50 organisations including Animal Aid , Battersea , Blue Cross , Born Free , Bransby Horses , Brooke Action for Working Horses and Donkeys , Cats Protection , CFSG , Compassion in World Farming , Dogs Trust , Horse Trust , Humane Society International / UK , IFAW , Kennel Club , League Against Cruel Sports , Mare and Foal Sanctuary , PDSA , Redwings , RSPCA , SPANA , Scottish SPCA , World Horse Welfare , World Animal Protection
A copy of the coalition Vision Paper can be found and read online at www . rspca . org . uk / getinvolved / campaign / actnowforanimals .
EVERYTHING HORSE MAGAZINE : MAY 2021 • 35