Many working animals are too remote to benefit from traditional veterinary services and the required expertise is scarce in the areas of the world where it is needed most.
Around the world, from Ecuador to Mozambique, we are providing essential veterinary care to equines in need. Alongside this we are training vets to promote long-lasting improvements in animal welfare and empower communities with knowledge about their animals. Working in collaboration with local NGOs and veterinary universities is an essential part of this to ensure a brighter future for equines.
Hope and new beginnings for equines in Argentina
Horses are a big part of the community in Argentina and are especially crucial for farmers. Working equines used by farmers are associated with a great diversity of tasks, including herding animals, transporting people, and carrying food and water, which is some cases, can compromise their health and well-being. Equines are also used in illegal trades and often severely mistreated.
We are working in partnership with local NGO Caballos de Quilmes (CQ) to address the needs of the Quilmes community. CQ aims to rescue working equines reported to the local authorities for severe neglect and abuse, while raising awareness of responsible horse ownership.
We have been providing ongoing support for CQ through the provision of veterinary equipment, supplies and medication, sending veterinarians, and training local vets and volunteers to improve the standard of care in these communities. There is still so much more that needs to be done, so that all equines have access to veterinary care, and to stop the many unnecessary deaths due to horrendous injuries and mistreatment.
Life-saving care for Lilo
Lilo, an abandoned horse in Argentina, was seriously injured and suffering immensely. Alone in a landfill site, Lilo’s future was not looking bright. Thankfully, he was found and rushed to the CQ clinic. He was in urgent need of veterinary attention after it was discovered that he had been brutally beaten by a carriage driver. The team saw the severity of his injuries and quickly began working to stabilise him.
It was discovered that he had trauma to his head and body, and multiple broken teeth. The team got straight to work trying to save Lilo’s life. They stabilised him with medication and made it a priority to reduce the swelling on his brain.
Lilo's injuries were so severe the team were unsure if he was going to make it, but with a safe place to heal and expert care, Lilo's future was looking more hopeful. After three long days he eventually responded to treatment and with great difficulty he was able to stand with the support of a rig. He received nutrients through an IV line until he was able to eat on his own. The team continued to provide Lilo with expert treatment and care with pain relief, as well as physiotherapy which allowed him to regain the ability to walk.
Since then, Lilo has shown incredible resilience and has recovered well. Thankfully, life-saving care was there when he needed it. No animal should have to experience what he has, but Lilo now has a new beginning, where he is safe, happy and healthy.
Our equine work in South America is kindly supported by the Marchig Animal Welfare Trust.
Help animals like Lilo
Many other animals around the world are suffering with no one to turn to. With your support we can reach more animals in urgent need of veterinary care, like Lilo. Donate to support our mission to create a brighter future for all animals.