“We want to establish how those of us who care for horses are dealing with the current economic climate" - Carolyn Madgwick, NEWC.

The findings will enable the NEWC to better support equine owners. 

Horse owners are being asked how they're coping with the cost-of-living crisis in a new survey.

Launched on Wednesday (21 December), the research is being undertaken on behalf of the National Equine Welfare Council (NEWC) by Redwings Horse Sanctuary, World Horse Welfare, Blue Cross, The British Horse Society, Oak Tree Animal Sanctuary and the British Farrier and Blacksmith Association.

NEWC chair Carolyn Madgwick said: “We want to establish how those of us who care for horses are dealing with the current economic climate. 

“The questions being asked include things like ‘what changes, if any, have you seen in horse care costs in the last year’ and ‘what changes have you made, or are considering, to save money?’.”

Feedback from the survey will be used to produce a report that will be shared with the public and, where relevant, the UK Government, Devolved Administrations and local authorities. The findings will also enable the NEWC to develop and publish guidance and advice to support those caring for horses across the UK. 

“The survey should take no longer than 20 minutes to complete, please do fill it in if you can and help us to understand how we might be able to help you,” Carolyn added.

The survey is available here and wil remain open until 31 January, 2023.