The Blue Cross seeks good homes for companions

The Blue Cross seeks good homes for companions The Blue Cross animal welfare charity is appealing to all horse owners to help with its quest to find good companion homes for some special horses and ponies in its care.  While companions can sometimes be seen as a ‘poor relation' to riding horses, they usually have an important role to play, according to the charity.  As well as offering vital companionship to other horses, companions can also have a positive influence on the behaviour of other horses, particularly youngsters.  Blue Cross supporter Sharon Holton, who has provided a loving home for a companion horse, has spoken about her rewarding experience in order to encourage more horse owners to take on a companion horse or pony from The Blue Cross. Gabby, a beautiful chestnut mare came to The Blue Cross after being found, terrified, on the side of a busy motorway. She was in a very poor condition and suffering from injuries that were likely to have been caused by a collision with a car. She also had some horrific sores and lacerations on her face, probably caused by a badly fitting head collar. The extent of Gabby's trauma, which included some serious injuries, meant that she couldn't be ridden but her gentle, loving nature made her an ideal candidate as a non-ridden companion. Sharon Holton was looking for a rescue horse to provide company for her appaloosa riding horse Jake.  After visiting The Blue Cross equine centre in Burford (Oxfordshire) she decided to offer Gabby a home where the mare could lead a life of contentment, while still fulfilling an important purpose in life.

Desmond is looking for a home where he can live out all year round.

Kate Gloyn, deputy centre manager of The Blue Cross equine welfare centre at Burford in Oxfordshire said: "Even when a horse or pony isn't being ridden it can still have a very useful job in life. Gabby is a perfect example. She is a great permanent companion for Sharon's appaloosa, who would otherwise be distressed and lonely as an only horse, yet Gabby is happy to be left alone for short periods when Sharon rides."

Sharon said: "Gabby is an absolute pleasure to have around. She gets on so well with Jake and she has quickly become a real member of the family. We are so pleased to provide her with a long term home and to give her the love and attention she deserves after her horrific experiences."

The Blue Cross has seen first-hand the benefits of using companion horses and ponies as ‘nannies' for youngsters.  Older, retired horses and ponies are often used in this capacity at the charity's rest and retirement centre at Northiam (East Sussex). 11hh bay mare Mayblossom, at the age of 24, is proving to be indispensable in helping to keep the centre's three-year-olds in check.

Carrie Lamb, Blue Cross sanctuary manager at Northiam explains: "Like all juveniles, horses learn from their elders and Mayblossom is a perfect ‘nanny' for our youngsters.  She won't stand for any nonsense but at the same time she's very tolerant.  A good nanny will nurture, discipline and guide other horses, teaching them acceptable behaviour within the herd.  They create a structured environment to help give stability and confidence to younger horses, which can be a great help when introducing new experiences like being caught or learning to be led."

The Blue Cross would like to hear from those with the knowledge and the facilities to take on a companion horse or pony and give them a second chance in life. Anyone providing homes through the charity's monitored loan scheme will be provided with free annual vaccinations and a routine health and teeth check for each Blue Cross horse. For more information please visit http://www.bluecross.org.uk/horses   or phone 01993 822454.

Companions at The Blue Cross

The Blue Cross equine centre in Burford currently has several companion horses and ponies who are looking for good homes where they can play an important role.   These include:

	Desmond is a 16.3hh, 20-year-old, dark bay gelding. He has had a busy life competing in eventing and dressage and is now looking for a home as a companion where he can enjoy life. Desmond is looking for a home where he can live out all year round.
	Thomas is a 14hh, bay Cob looking for a home as a non-ridden companion. He has a sweet temperament but can be nervous so is looking for a home with someone experienced who can continue his training and build up his trust in a new home. He will live out all year or can be part stabled. He is also good with the vet and farrier.
	Trigger is an 11hh, 16-year-old gelding who came to The Blue Cross when his owner could no longer look after him. Trigger will make a great companion and is looking for a home with someone experienced who can continue his training. He will live out all year or can be part-stabled.
	Ebony is a 15hh, bay, Arab Gelding. He is 23-years-old and is looking for a caring home. Ebony is a true gentleman and loves attention. He will be part stabled or live out with shelter.
	Montana is an 18-year-old, 14.2hh part-bred Arab, chestnut mare. She is looking for a home as a companion. Montana is a lovely pony who is happy to live out or be part-stabled.
	Flynn is a 15.3hh, 13-year-old, bay gelding. He is a lovely horse with a sweet temperament who can no longer be ridden due to muscular damage in his shoulder. Flynn is looking for a home where he can live out all year round.

The Blue Cross equine centre in Burford:
Shilton Road, Burford, Oxon OX18 4PF

Tel:   01993 822454
Email:  burfordequine@bluecross.org.uk
Website: www.bluecross.org.uk

Opening hours:
8.30am-4.30pm:  Monday to Friday (including Bank Holidays)
10am-3.30pm:  Saturday and Sunday
Closed on Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year's Day
 

Added on: 06/10/08.

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