How the Animal Health Trust gives your pony power…
We save foals from fatal conditions
After 10 years of research, we have developed a DNA test to identify horses which carry the genetic mutation which is responsible for Foal Immunodeficiency Syndrome (FIS). All foals which are born with this condition sadly die. Because of the test there need never be a foal born with the condition again.
We save ponies sight
Morris, an abandoned blind Welsh pony came to us for cataract surgery. He was completely blind in both eyes but our eye experts carried out surgery and were able to give him back sight in both his eyes! Morris is rehabilitating at the Horse Rescue Fund and we hope he’ll have a nice, new home by the end of the year.
We save horses lives
Strangles is a plague of the horse world which spreads like wildfire among groups of horses. Our scientists have developed a blood test which enables owners to know if their horse been exposed to Strangles and may be a carrier. These horses can be isolated so they don’t spread the infection. The test is ideal for screening horses before they go to sales or competitions to stop any inadvertent infection.
We make horses and ponies feel better
Barney, a working hunter pony, came to us suffering from severe back pain. Our vets identified the source of his pain as an injury to the upper cannon region of his hind legs - he had a big hole in his right ligament. Barney underwent surgery and is now fit and well, jumping and showing with added enthusiasm.
We also care for dogs and cats
We treat lots of dogs and cats each year, suffering with a variety of conditions ranging from cancer to epilepsy to blindness to severe skin allergies, and lots more besides. Our scientists are also constantly striving to develop new vaccines, DNA tests and diagnostic tools to help dogs and cats beat disease and injury.
And bears, lions, seals…
Our vets have restored the sight of a lioness in Romania, rescued moon bears in China, a white tiger and a dolphin in Tenerife and even a one-year-old wallaby called Little Big Foot!
All of this has only been possible thanks to generous donations from people like you who realise the importance of healthy, happy animals. But there is still so much to do and this is why we need your support…
Help us help your horses and ponies
We are currently trying to develop a vaccine to combat equine grass sickness. We are working to create a breeding programme which will save the future of the Suffolk horse. We are also investigating what causes laminitis and aim to come up with new therapies.
The money you and your branch or centre raises will not only help us continue these vital projects, but will also help save many more animals in need.