Freedom with protection 

Open spaces. Freedom to roam. Life in a herd and a choice of forage. It sounds ideal for any horse. Yet for some semi-wild horses, the reality is far bleaker: without the care and protection they need, their health and welfare are at risk.

Life in these wide-open spaces in the UK and across Europe can be tough. Rugged terrain. Scorching heat and drought. Torrential rain and heavy snow. And while these horses and ponies may appear wild, they all descend from domesticated animals and still depend on people to safeguard their welfare. Many have roamed common land for generations, becoming part of the local heritage and landscape. Others have been introduced to conservation and rewilding areas to help restore habitats and encourage biodiversity. But some have simply been abandoned, left to fend for themselves in unfamiliar and unforgiving surroundings.

Freedom to roam should never mean being left to suffer. Every semi-wild horse and pony needs someone to look out for their welfare. Someone responsible for making sure they have access to forage, water and shelter when they need it. Someone to provide treatment when they are sick or injured. And someone to make sure that, if they are rehomed, their new owners understand their unique needs.

For some semi-wild horses and ponies, this is already a reality. But others are being left behind. They urgently need stronger laws, better practices, changed attitudes and sustainable funding to ensure they get the protection they deserve.

Change is possible, but they need your help to make it happen. Join our movement. Sign the pledge. Help protect semi-wild horses and ponies.

What does a sustainable solution look like for semi-wild horses? Find out more about our recommendations, which are based on our work with semi-wild horses.

Help find lasting solutions that prevent suffering before it happens.