CARING FOR HORSES IN OUR VALLEY: Welfare Matters after the Fires
H orses are herd animals with specific needs, and their welfare depends on good care, proper nutrition, and safe social interaction. In Greyton and surrounding
Currently, many owners are facing a crisis. Grazing is limited, rivers have dried up, and both hay and concentrates are expensive, making it very difficult for many to keep horses in good condition.
care - including vaccinations and dental checks - keeps horses healthy. Social interac- tion is also crucial; horses be- come stressed or anxious when isolated so having one horse
often shows sunken areas over the spine and hips, prominent shoulder bones, a dull coat, low energy, and may appear generally weak. Running your hands over the neck, back, and hindquarters can help detect early weight loss before it becomes severe. Some well intentioned people may wish to adopt horses to keep them safe, off the roads and fed, but it’s vital to under- stand a little about horses and make an informed decision. A horse can live for up to 30 years - often longer than your chil- dren may stay at home! Animal welfare extends beyond feeding. Horses require safe shelter, fresh water, regular hoof care, 6 monthly deworming and vaccina- tions to prevent disease. Hooves should be trimmed or shod every six to eight weeks, and routine veterinary
that is used to a herd can cause issues. Training for both horse and owner to maintain a healthy respectful rela- tionship from both is also important. Without proper advice prior to taking in animals, well-intentioned help can sometimes create bigger problems, such as horses biting or kicking individ- uals at food times or a herd gathering at your gate. Every bit of support helps, but it’s best to seek guidance through GAWS rather than trying to solve issues independently. Caring for a horse, especially after en- vironmental challenges like major fires, requires vigilance, compassion, and knowledge. By understanding what a healthy horse looks like and acting quick- ly if signs of weight loss or poor condition appear, the community can help ensure these animals remain safe, well-fed, and happy - even in difficult seasons. Even if a horse looks thin but is alert, has some muscle, and a shiny coat, it may be coping. But once you see prominent bones, sunken areas, dull coat, and weakness, the horse is in serious danger and needs urgent intervention: please contact GAWS outreach for advice and assistance.
areas, recent fires have devastated much of the grazing land, making it even more important for owners and the community to watch the horses’ condition closely. A healthy horse thrives on forage, water, and companionship. After a fire, pastures may be sparse, so owners must try to supplement with hay or quality feed to prevent excessive weight loss. Monitoring body condition regularly is key: horses should have a smooth, slightly rounded appearance, with ribs that can be felt but are not sharply visible. It can be challenging to distinguish a nat- urally lean, free-roaming horse from one that is underweight due to insufficient feeding. A wild or ‘seasonally slim’ horse may have visible ribs but maintains good muscle tone, a shiny coat, and alert be- havior. In contrast, an underweight horse
TWO RESCUE FAMILIES ARE NOW ONE Greyton Animal Welfare Society (GAWS) and the Equine and Rescue Sanctuary (E proud to announce that we have officially joined forces to form one united organ dedicated to the wellbeing of every animal in our community. By merging our skills, volunteers and experience, we have created a stronger, more efficie more responsive organisation. Consolidation means less duplication, more coordination an greater ability to respond quickly when animals need help. Together we can pool resources, streamline operations and deliver better care to more an ever before. From horses to dogs, cats and all the animals who share our valley, we are he them. The new combined organisation will stand as the first responders and the voice of the anim valley. This new chapter marks a powerful step forward in protecting, treating and support animals who depend on us. The Donkey Sanctuary will continue as a separate entity. Thank you for standing with us as we grow, strengthen and continue our mission. Togethe do more for the animals who rely on our care. One community, one voice, one home for A animals. Please watch our GAWS social media platforms for more information.
With heartfelt thanks The GAWS Team
071 105 0366
MARCH/APRIL 2026 The new combined organisation will stand as the first responders and t valley. This new chapter marks a powerful step forward in protecting, tr animals who depend on us. The Donkey Sanctuary will continue as a se Thank you for standing with us as we grow, strengthen and continue ou do more for the animals who rely on our care. One community, one voi Visit at Shop 7, Oak & Vine Courtyard, DS Botha Street, Greyton. www.madeingreyton.co.za | Alison: 083 306 2536 Together we can pool resources, streamline operations and deliver bett ever before. From horses to dogs, cats and all the animals who share ou them. Opening hours: Monday: closed Tues - Fri: 10am - 2pm Sat & Sun: 10am - 1pm TWO RESCUE FAMILIES ARE NOW ONE Greyton Animal Welfare Society (GAWS) and the Equine and Re proud to announce that we have officially joined forces to form dedicated to the wellbeing of every animal in our community. By merging our skills, volunteers and experience, we have created a str more responsive organisation. Consolidation means less duplication, m greater ability to respond quickly when animals need help. Come meet Alison for bespoke lampshades and decor items DONATE VIA EFT: Greyton Animal Welfare Society Standard Bank | Current Account 082180652
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