Horses rescued from being cruelly smuggled abroad are ready for rehoming

Five ponies, including a ‘tiny young’ filly, who were discovered crammed on a transporter alongside twenty-one other frightened and vulnerable horses are now available for rehoming.

The ‘Dover 26’ as they are known, were rescued after they were discovered by authorities being illegally smuggled out of Dover port, with some believed to be destined for a European slaughterhouse. Several in the group were found without the necessary paperwork and were suffering from health issues, making them unfit to travel. After their initial assessment, one had to be put to sleep to avoid any further suffering and subsequently another two were in such a poor way they also had to be put to sleep.

The rescued horses and ponies were taken into the safety of our Hall Farm Rescue and Rehoming Centre in Norfolk where they have been receiving ongoing specialist care and tailor-made rehabilitation programmes.

Despite their traumatic journey and unknown treatment at the hands of their smugglers, the group has made a remarkable recovery thanks to our charity’s dedicated team. Now, in a heartwarming turn of events, the first five – Crocus, Dior, Foxy, Heyday and Mair – are ready to find loving new homes.

The case of the Dover 26 highlights the harsh realities faced by the thousands of animals caught up in the illegal trade of horses. Every year, thousands of horses are subjected to long and gruelling journeys across the UK and Europe, forced to experience awful conditions, as they are smuggled towards an unknown fate.

We have recently launched a campaign to urge supporters and animal-lovers to write to their MP to make sure they speak out against horse smuggling in the UK Parliament. Take part today on our website.

The five Dover 26 mares have joined over 70 other horses and ponies who are also currently ready for rehoming. As the largest equine rescue and rehoming charity in the UK, we rehabilitate and find new homes for approximately 300 horses every year. Rehomers receive an honest assessment of their chosen horse’s capabilities and ongoing support, with the reassurance that the rehomed horse can be returned to us if circumstances change.

For more information on the rehoming process and to explore the possibility of welcoming one of our horses into your home, visit our rehoming website.