Three horses rescued by the RSPCA have been waiting more than 1000 days to find a new home and a loving family. Clover, Pippa, and Gatsby were seized as part of an animal cruelty case in 2023 and have been cared for by the organisation ever since.
Rescue and Rehabilitation
Kasey Bridge, RSPCA NSW senior manager of capacity, intake and emergency, explained that the trio were part of the same group and were in poor condition when they were seized. "It usually takes quite a few months of rehabilitation to get them to the point they are ready for adoption," she said. "It took around 12 months to get them into better condition."
Ms Bridge noted that RSPCA NSW shelters are home to a lot more than just cats and dogs. Along with birds and smaller animals including rabbits and guinea pigs, the Hunter shelter also gives horses in need a second chance. "People don't realise that we don't just have cats and dogs and there are horses looking for homes as well," she said.
The Long Wait
Horses typically end up waiting the longest for adoption, and the "terrific trio" have now surpassed over 1000 days in the care of the RSPCA. "After arriving in poor body condition, all three are now thriving and patiently waiting for their forever homes," Ms Bridge said. "All of our horses have a full vet check and dental every twelve months and they are fully vaccinated and wormed before they go up for adoption."
New Equine Adoption Centre
Late last year, RSPCA's Hunter shelter opened a new Equine Adoption Centre designed to transform how it cares for, rehabilitates, and rehomes horses across the state. "We have a new facility with 13 paddocks and a stable block," Ms Bridge said. "It enables us to rehabilitate and get more horses ready for adoption, and it is an easier place for people to come and view them."
Ms Bridge said RSPCA NSW had 41 horses up for adoption. "When we get a horse a new home, it frees up space for us another to come into care," she said. She added that the trio of rescued horses were very well handled and very friendly with other horses. "I would just love all three to find their forever homes," she concluded.
