03 September 2025

Caring for Gizmo in the months ahead

Why this winter might be like no other

Ensuring that Gizmo has a happy, comfortable winter will be a challenge for us this year. The price of basic but essential supplies has increased at the same time as running costs such as energy and fuel.

His carers help Gizmo maintain a healthy body condition throughout the year by giving him regular supplementary feeds. Gizmo turned 27 earlier this year and his teeth are quite worn and although he is still happy to eat grass, without these supplementary feeds he loses weight. Gizmo will spend more time on woodchip over this winter, when his diet will be made up entirely of forage and supplements.

Preventative healthcare plays a very important role in giving sanctuary residents a good life. Part of that care for Gizmo is a programme of vaccinations that protect him from equine influenza and tetanus.

Donate to the appeal

£18

could provide a resident with essential feed this winter

£20

could help provide residents with the comfort of a bed this winter

£26

could vaccinate a horse in our care and protect them from illness

Gizmo and his friends will move to Ada Cole Centre’s woodchip paddock, where they will spend most of the winter. The woodchip paddocks are covered with a layer of straw, which provides some more comfort and insulation. Straw pads are also created for those horses and ponies who are living out on paddocks over the winter. The straw pads offer a dry place to relax and an opportunity to sleep deeply, something that helps horses feel more relaxed and is vital to a strong immune system.

For residents who are stabled overnight, the price of providing a bed of shavings has increased by a third in the past five years. Most of our residents live out year-round but some, including those who are unwell or recuperating, need the comfort of a stable and bed under cover.

A healthy diet, protection from infectious illness and a warm, dry bed are simple needs but will be critical to all our residents this winter. That care is made possible only through your kindness and support.

Rising costs of feed, hay and fuel mean caring for our horses will be a challenge this winter

Gizmo and his friend Tilly on a woodchip paddock

Our commitment

Caring for rescued horses and ponies like Gizmo at Redwings is only possible thanks to your kind donations, and this year, with costs rising exponentially, your help is needed more than ever. Please consider donating towards our winter care costs today. Thank you.

You can text GIZMO 10 to 70085 to donate £10*

*You can give any amount – whole £s only up to £20. Texts will cost the donation amount plus one standard network rate message, and you’ll be opting in to hearing more from us. If you would like to donate but don’t wish to hear from us, please text GIZMONOINFO instead.