Horses and Ponies Protection Association (HAPPA)

HAPPA have been saving equine lives since 1937 and strive to give a Second Chance to abused, neglected and unwanted equines through Rescue, Rehabilitation, Rehoming and Education.

Our vision is to make sure horses, ponies, donkeys and their hybrids that have suffered cruelty or neglect are offered a second chance by being rehomed to private homes, ensuring these homes have the necessary knowledge and experience to ensure the equine’s welfare will not be comprised during the rest of its lifetime.

Our Main Beliefs:

1. Every rescued equine deserves a Second Chance in a Forever Home.
2. Every equine deserves a quality lifetime instead of the main focus being longevity of life.
3. Every equine has a purpose – rideable or companion. They all have a place in society.
4. Education and support will help to improve standards of equine care.

HAPPA’s Equine Inspectors investigate over 300 cases of cruelty and neglect each year that have been reported by members of the public. HAPPA Inspectors play a key role in the co-ordination and enforcement of codes relating to the ‘Five Welfare Needs’ and provide expert advice and support to horse owners. They are also able to educate in such cases when an equine’s welfare is compromised due to lack of knowledge. Where possible our Inspectors offer guidance and assistance. However, we will take action via prosecution, or on occasion offer the ability to sign legal ownership to the care of HAPPA, where we find cases of cruelty and neglect.

Rescued equines are taken into HAPPA’s care to prevent further suffering. Where assistance is needed the Charity will sometimes work in collaboration with other welfare agencies. All equines are taken to Shores Hey Farm, Burnley where they will receive initial treatment and care in the Yvonne Gregory Isolation and Assessment Unit followed by a bespoke care and rehabilitation package. By responding to calls from the public and other agencies regarding cruelty, neglect and abandonment we can continue to investigate and offer help to the equines who need us.

Every equine that arrives at Shores Hey Farm is stabled within our purpose built Isolation and Assessment Unit where they will spend a minimum of 21 days. Assessments for health, condition, behaviour and confirmation are carried out by our Isolation Team and the Veterinary Surgeons. We may also seek advice from a specialist Equine Dietitian and the Farrier will commence any remedial work. Medication and treatments will be given where required.

After this period, once integrated into the main herd, a rescued equine begins their Journey to be matched with a Forever Home through the Charity’s Loan Scheme. Equines in their Forever Homes will be checked bi-annually by HAPPA's dedicated staff and volunteers. All HAPPA horses, ponies or donkeys of any age are given a Second Chance of finding their Forever Home.

We pride ourselves on sharing the knowledge and expertise we have within our Welfare and Care Teams. From our Beginners Horse and Pony Care courses to Conferences and Clinics we cover how to care for an equine both inside and out. As a renowned equine welfare charity, we want to educate all on how to correctly care for a horse/pony. From basic horse husbandry to advanced skills knowledge and understanding, we believe education is key to reducing horse welfare concerns across the UK.