Massive Equine Rescue in Buckinghamshire .
When Redwings received a telephone call from the RSPCA in January asking for help with the rescue of a large number of equines from a site in Buckinghamshire, we swung into action in the way we have done on many occasions in the past. What was different about this case however, was the fact that during the day, the media became aware of the story and it quickly became headline news.
What shocked the nation was the number of dead equines that had been discovered at the site. The bodies of more than 30 horses, ponies and donkeys had been found around the site, with their surviving equine companions stood around them where they lay. Sadly, three other equines were in such a poor state that they had to be put to sleep by a vet the same day. There were over 100 equines still on the property. Many were clearly in need of urgent veterinary attention and the scale of the situation made it clear that all the remaining animals should be removed to a place of safety where they could be professionally cared for.
It was a mammoth task, even by Redwings standards. The equines were spread around the site, some in fields, some in yards, others in small pens. Some were friendly and could be caught in the usual way but many others were understandably nervous. Access to the site was limited and it took real expertise to manouevre vehicles in and out safely.
A team of over 30 Redwings staff and eight equine vehicles were supported by RSPCA Inspectors, the ILPH area Field Officer and staff from the Blue Cross. Commercial transporters loaded up horses and ponies that could be handled and set off to allocated sanctuary sites where staff were ready and waiting to receive them. With Redwings' expertise in rescuing nervous and unhandled equines and in donkey care, it made sense for us to take on the transportation of these groups. Working well into darkness with the help of torches, finally the last individuals were safely loaded and the convoy were on their way back to Norfolk.
Not all details of the Buckinghamshire rescue can be discussed as the case is currently under investigation with a view to prosecuting the owner. Please keep checking this site for more information on the individual animals rescued from Buckinghamshire in January and some of the wider welfare issues which have come to the fore as a result of people's shock and concern.
