Pony charity struggling with costs and influx of animals

RISE IN PRICE OF HAY AND NUMBER OF HORSES BEING ABANDONED SPARK CLOSURE FEARS

- By SAM KALANTZIS [e-mail]

A HORSE and pony re-homing charity has said it is facing potential closure due to an increase in costs and people giving up their animals.

The Next Chapter Rescue and Rehoming Centre, in Leicester Road, Countesthorpe, has found itself struggling to survive due to increased costs of hay, vet bills and an influx of owners giving up their horses.

Owner of the charity, Shelley Page, said the combination of issues has led to her fearing for the future. She said: “Winter has been extremely difficult on us with hay prices rising but also with an increase in horses being taken under our care, as their owners can no longer afford to house and feed them.

“The rising costs of living are affecting all of us and you can see that clearly in how many people have had to give up their horses.

“It’s not even the end of the day and I’ve already had three horses dropped off to me today but we are now full and cannot take in any more of these beauties.