07 October 2025

Redwings assists in charity collaboration to safeguard welfare of rare-breed horses

A chestnut mare and foal

Redwings has assisted in a collaboration to protect 70 rare-breed horses and foals in Devon.

The Mare and Foal Sanctuary and World Horse Welfare worked alongside the RSPCA to lead a 15-month operation after concerns were raised by members of the public in May 2024.

Welfare officers from the charities found a number of semi-feral herds of Icelandic horses across several sites in Devon. There was unmanaged breeding, with pregnant mares living alongside fighting colts and stallions. Some were found with life-threatening injuries. High worm burdens, especially among young horses, posed a major concern with some random samples showing levels in the thousands. Excessive worms can lead to malnutrition, poor growth, colic, and other health problems, making it crucial to manage parasite control to keep the horses healthy and thriving. 

As the owner cooperated, horses were signed over in stages over several months to the three charities.  

The Donkey Sanctuary and Redwings Horse Sanctuary supported the operation with extra transport, equipment and expertise. Redwings sent a vet with expertise and skill in managing feral horses, who helped with passporting and microchipping. Blue Cross also stepped in at the conclusion of the case with an offer to rehome some of the horses.

None of the horses are in Redwings care or available to rehome from us.

The entire process was a vet-led, multi-agency effort adhering to strict codes of practice upheld by all partners. Injured horses and those deemed most at risk by the vets were removed first, followed by mares and foals in need of specialist care, then stallions. Healthy mares and foals were taken last. By the end of summer 2025, all horses had been safely removed. 

Throughout, the focus remained on achieving the best possible welfare outcomes for the equines, demonstrating how teamwork and dedication can make a real difference in safeguarding their wellbeing. The charities have united in a message encouraging all equine owners who may be struggling to come forward and seek help. 

Redwings operates a welfare support helpline to talk through any concerns that someone has about a horse, pony, donkey or mule. Anyone worried about an equine can call our welfare line on 01508 481008 or 01508 505246 or email welfare@redwings.co.uk.  

We can't help horses, ponies, donkeys and mules without your support. If you can, please make a donation here. 
 

Welfare Officers herding ponies
Photos courtesy of The Mare and Foal Sanctuary
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