Cambodia

Why we work here?

Working ponies are widely used by communities in rural regions for transporting people, water and goods. Many of these ponies have low welfare conditions due to a complexity of issues, including poor nutrition, management and handling practices. The genocide in Cambodia in 1975 means that the rebuilding of knowledge and skills within the population will take time and resources, including for those services that people need to take care of their animals.

What we are doing?

In 2012 World Horse Welfare was awarded a grant from the International Equestrian Federation (FEI) to train farriers and harness-makers. Since then, we have been working with the Cambodia Pony Welfare Organisation (CPWO) to help owners take better care of their ponies so that they can work in harmony to generate income and have improved lives. The project also trains and mentors local village vets to provide quality but affordable vet services to owners in their communities.

Meet an owner

Mesor had a bad road accident in 2015 when he got too tired and fell over in the road whilst working and badly cut his legs. His owner sought help from CPWO and his local village vet to treat him, but his community members also encouraged him to attend the project clinics to prevent problems from happening to start with. Mesor’s owner now attends every workshop that is held in their area and takes better care of him so that Mesor is now fit and well.