OUR MODEL OF CARE
A national network of care, built around the individual horse
Our work starts well before a horse needs rescue. We support owners early, plan for emergencies and respond to concerns. When a horse comes into our care, we support them through rehabilitation and foster care and, when possible, place them in the right home. Every horse we adopt out can return to us if circumstances change.
BEFORE A CRISIS
We get involved early, while there are still options
In our experience, welfare problems rarely start with an owner who doesn't care. They start small. A horse losing weight over winter, feed that no longer suits them, a change in circumstances, or not knowing who to ask can all become bigger problems if nobody steps in early. That's why prevention comes first in everything we do. The earlier an owner gets the right advice, the less likely a small problem is to become a crisis.
PREVENTION
Knowledge that makes the difference
Helping owners avoid problems before they start is where our expertise counts most. We give practical advice to anyone who reaches out, and our Education Fund has helped new owners build the skills to care for their horses well. Every story we share and every event we attend, like Equifest, is a chance to show what good care looks like.
OWNER SUPPORT
Talk to us before it becomes urgent
Illness, a move, money worries or a family crisis can change what an owner is able to give their horse, sometimes overnight. When that happens, the earlier they get in touch, the more options there are. We can talk through what's next, from practical advice to taking a horse into our care if that's what's best for them.
WHEN THERE'S A CONCERN
How we respond when a horse needs help
Assess
Understand what is happening
Every situation is different. Whether a concern comes from a neighbour, a member of the public or the owner themselves, our first step is to talk to the owner and look at the whole picture: the horse's condition, environment, immediate needs and the circumstances around them.
Plan
Find the right way forward
We build a practical plan around the individual horse. Wherever possible, that starts with advice and guidance for the owner, without blame. It might also mean veterinary or farrier care, rehabilitation, foster care, or working alongside other agencies and professionals.
Protect
Put the horse's welfare first
Where intervention is needed, we step in. Our priority is always a safe, sustainable outcome for the horse. That might mean helping them stay safely at home with the right advice in place, or bringing them into our care when that's what's best.
Rescue isn't always the answer
Removing a horse from their home isn't always the best outcome, and it isn't the only way to improve welfare.
Many welfare concerns can be resolved with the right advice, practical help or access to professional care. Where it is safe and appropriate, we want to help address problems early, before they become a crisis.
When a horse does need to leave, we're there for that too. Through our foster network, rehabilitation and rehoming programme, we can give them the time and care they need to work towards the right long term outcome.
WORRIED ABOUT A HORSE?
Be the reason help arrives sooner
If you're concerned about a horse that isn't yours, tell us what you've noticed. We'll look into it carefully. You don't need to be certain something is wrong.
NEED HELP WITH YOUR OWN HORSE?
Asking early can change the outcome
If you're struggling to meet your horse's needs or aren't sure what to do next, reach out. Asking for help is a positive first step.
WHEN A HORSE COMES INTO OUR CARE
Care for as long as it takes
From the moment a horse comes into our care, we take full responsibility for their welfare. Our core team transports them safely, and every horse gets a vet check, dental and farrier work and a nutrition plan. Rehab is shaped around each horse and never rushed, and many need a year or more. When they're ready, they move to a matched foster home, then on to adoption or long term foster care. Every adopted horse can return to us if circumstances change.
AT EVERY STAGE
Working with everyone around the horse
Good welfare depends on the people around a horse working together. We work closely with agencies, other rescues, professionals and the wider community at every stage of our care.
Equine professionals
Vets, farriers, trainers and feed suppliers are part of our wider network. Their skills and advice shape each horse's care plan, from the first health check through to full rehabilitation.
Emergencies
We keep emergency plans in place and work with Civil Defence and local agencies when floods, drought or other disasters put horses at risk, getting volunteers, transport and supplies where they're needed.
Community
Neighbours and members of the public are often the first to notice a horse in need. We listen, follow up and keep them involved.
Industry and partners
Our relationships with equine businesses and welfare organisations extend what we can do for horses. Their support helps fund care, share knowledge and reach more owners before problems grow.
Other rescues
Not every rescue is set up to care for horses. When another rescue isn't able to take one, we can help with knowledge, land or foster placements, so the horse still gets the care they need.
Agencies
We support SPCA, the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) and local councils with horse cases, bringing equine expertise and capacity. SPCA and MPI hold the legal authority to act.
MAKE IT POSSIBLE
Help us be there early
Regular giving means we can help owners before small problems grow, respond carefully when there's a concern, and care for every horse for as long as it takes.
Equine Welfare NZ Registered Charitable Trust Building on the work of Rodney Animal Rescue
Charity Registration CC63890