Bristol-based equine charity HorseWorld has announced it will be unable to host its annual open day this weekend due to a confirmed outbreak of Streptococcus Zooepidemicus (Strep Zoo).
A statement sent to Your Horse revealed that around 10% of the charity’s 110 residents have been affected by the respiratory infection so the charity is unable to open its doors to the public this Saturday 9 August.
“Strep Zoo is a respiratory infection – some horses may carry the bacteria without showing signs of illness, but it can cause serious infections like pneumonia, particularly in young horses, or immune-compromised horses,” said the statement which came from HorseWorld Trust ceo Jo Coombs.
“Whilst Strep Zoo isn’t as serious as strangles for a normal horse, many of the rescued horses at HorseWorld are immunocompromised, so at a higher risk.”
Safety first
“Safety comes first – for our horses and our supporters – and so, whilst it is heartbreaking to do so, in line with veterinary guidance we have taken the tough decision to cancel our open day,” continued the statement.
“And because so many horses in our herd are higher risk and there is strangles in the local area, we have taken the additional step of locking our site down to all but essential staff and suppliers.”
HorseWorld ceo, Jo Coombs, explains the situation in the video below
Lost income
The cancellation of the open day comes as a big financial blow to the charity which was set to raise £20,000 from the event.
To try and recoup some of the money it is set to lose, the charity will be hosting a virtual fundraising event which will feature videos, chats with vets and behind the scenes footage of life at HorseWorld.
“We hope that our friends, supporters, open day visitors and even people who are finding out about us for the first time, will support our appeal at this challenging time,” said the statement.
“Every contribution, no matter the size, will directly support the daily care of horses that have already suffered — and who now need the help more than ever.”
History
Founded in 1952, HorseWorld was originally formed to take in retired working horses who were destined for slaughter. Over the years, the need has changed as more horses than ever before are being abandoned, cruelly treated and neglected.
HorseWorld rescues, nurses the animal back to health, aids with any prosecution involved and begins a program of rehabilitation with each individual animal.
To donate to the Virtual Open Day Appeal click here.
Image © HorseWorld.
