Rescue Operation on Breakspear Road: Residents Save 14 Horses in Coordinated Effort
A meticulously planned and executed rescue operation unfolded on Breakspear Road, Ruislip, as a response to residents' grave concerns about the welfare of 14 horses in an adjacent field. The collaborative efforts of the Council, RSPCA, World Horse Welfare, and Harefield Horses, a resident-led action group, spanned several hours, aiming to alleviate the dire conditions and abhorrent neglect suffered by the animals.
The decision to seize the horses was made by the London Borough of Hillingdon after determining that their welfare was at risk. Tragically, in early February, a young fowl affectionately named Hope, as designated by Harefield Horses, succumbed to malnutrition and poor conditions. The announcement of Hope's demise, shared on Facebook, sent shockwaves through the local community, eliciting hundreds of comments from well-wishers and mourners.
Collaborating closely, the organizations deployed teams wearing protective clothing to assess the horses with the aid of a veterinarian. Subsequently, RSPCA and World Horse Welfare worked diligently to board the horses into horseboxes lining Breakspear Road.
The operation faced challenges such as the delicate health of some horses, their reluctance to enter horseboxes, and the intricate logistics of coordinating multiple agencies. Despite these challenges, the collaborative spirit prevailed, resulting in a successful rescue without harm to any of the horses or rescuers.
For several months, a group of residents known as Harefield Horses has been caring for the animals, providing food, shelter, and medical attention through community donations. A spokesperson expressed gratitude for the local community's support, stating,
"The 21st of February oversaw the rescue of 14 horses and ponies from the Breakspear Road fields in Harefield. It was a tiring and long day in which many of our volunteers aided the incredible teams from WHW, RSPCA, and RVC."
The group emphasized that the rescue marks just the beginning, stating,
"We will continue to call upon local authorities and animal welfare organizations to implement stricter regulations on horse ownership and provide better oversight on animal welfare cases."
The RSPCA contributed expertise in animal welfare, veterinary support, and specialist officers to ensure the humane treatment of the rescued horses. The organization expressed gratitude for those involved and emphasized its commitment to investigating complaints about animal welfare. The organization expressed its gratitude for those involved, saying, "We assisted Hillingdon Council with the removal of 14 ponies from a property in Ruislip on 21 February. We are so grateful to people who report suspected animal suffering to us and would like to reassure people we will always look into and, if necessary, investigate any complaints made to us about animal welfare."
World Horse Welfare, a charity dedicated to helping horses, brought in specialized vehicles and rescue teams for the safe transportation and long-term care of the animals. The organization echoed the call for stricter regulations on horse ownership and better oversight on animal welfare cases.
"All 14 horses, affectionately known as 'The Harefield horses,' are now under the care of World Horse Welfare, undergoing assessments and tailored treatments with the goal of eventual rehoming".
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The successful rescue operation garnered significant support from the local community, with residents expressing their gratitude to the rescuers. Initiatives such as fundraising and volunteer opportunities are being explored to further assist the horses.
Following the rescue, comprehensive health assessments, veterinary care, and rehabilitation are underway for the 14 horses. Plans for their long-term well-being and potential rehoming are being developed through the efforts of World Horse Welfare. for more information visit World Horse Welfare at www.worldhorsewelfare.org/
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