It is a very sad fact that only 10% of the world’s equines receive any form of medical care.  That coupled with the fact that of the 90% of those not in receipt of care, most are worked continuously day after day under the most appalling of conditions akin to the middle ages.   

 

They do not have adequate water or food, their harness is poorly made and ill fitting so it rubs sores on their bodies and their feet are not looked after.

 

This year on 21st June the East Sussex area of the British Driving Society held an evening charity carriage drive in aid of the charity American Fondouk.  This is an equine hospital in Fes, Morocco who treat thousands of horses, donkeys and mules each year. 

 

Without the vets and farrier at the hospital these poor animals would not receive any medical or farrier care at all.  All the treatment is free because the owners are poor so the hospital rely on donations.  

 

It was lovely sunny evening and the 10 mile drive took the participants through off road woodland byways and along quiet countryside roads.  The drive had to be held under strict Covid-19 restrictions but there were still 8 turnouts and they were also accompanied by a rider. 

 

There was a minimum donation of £10 per turnout charged and each turnout received a lovely rosette sponsored by the British Driving Society. 

 

Unfortunately the Covid social distancing rule meant that grooms had to be a member of the driver’s household and this meant that many members could not attend.  However, many members felt that this was a worthy charity and gave a donation in any case.  The total raised from all the members was £445.00.  This will go a long way to pay for the care that these poor equines so desperately need.