Last month The Horse Trust welcomed three new residents to its Buckingham base to begin their well-deserved retirement.
Jezz, Vella and Bill have moved to their forever home at The Horse Trust in the Chiltern Hills after a number of year’s working for the Riding for Disabled (RDA). It is rare for RDA horses and ponies to retire to The Horse Trust which makes the arrival of this trio extra special.
Meet Jezz
Jezz is an Arab mare who spent 13 years as an equine-assisted therapy horse at Beechley RDA in Liverpool. She was instrumental in delivering hippotherapy sessions – a form of physical, occupational, and speech therapy that uses the horse’s movement to provide sensory input – and even participated in special events at Aintree Racecourse in partnership with the Jockey Club. As well as taking part in therapy sessions, Jezz also competed at the RDA National Championships.
About Vella
A striking Irish Sports Horse x cob with a gentle nature and a springy trot, Vella supported students with additional educational needs at Barrow Farm RDA in Essex for more than seven years. She was specially trained as a hoist pony and was successful in regional and national competitions.
Introducing Bill
Bill is a blue roan skewbald pony who was an integral member of Gaddesden Place RDA in Hemel Hempstead for six years. Like Jezz, Bill, who has been retired due to arthritis, was a vital part of hippotherapy sessions for children with complex needs, always patient and dependable even in emotional or challenging circumstances.
“We are incredibly proud to welcome Jezz, Vella and Bill into their well-earned retirement with us,” said Jeanette Allen, chief executive officer of The Horse Trust.
“These exceptional horses have spent their lives supporting people with disabilities through equine-assisted therapy, and now it’s our turn to give back to them.
“Every horse that joins our Home of Rest is given the highest standard of care, comfort and companionship, and we’re honoured to offer them a peaceful home for the rest of their days.”
The Horse Trust is hosting a programme of events – including the chance to meet some of its residents – over the summer. For more information or to donate to help the charity expand its sanctuary click here.
Images © The Horse Trust.
