Animal abuse and neglect is at a steady high in Ireland and we hear so many stories of these poor animals and what they go through – those that do the abusing get plenty of conversation topic time – although be it, it’s not pleasant – but as a mum of two rescue ponies, having been around abused animals for many years now, I wanted to talk to those who allow those animals who are rescued, to have a second chance at life – and to also let those of us, who will never know what these people go through daily, to have a glimpse into the incredible work they do.  

I will be talking to the Animal Rescuers from some of the centers across Ireland over this article series – but that is not to say that those we don’t feature are not doing amazing work – but we are limited with our capabilities to include everyone – so randomly selected those that do feature – ALL those centers helping animals – not just equines – are absolutely amazing – and we all salute you!

We start our series with Sharon – who represents the Irish Horse Welfare Trust based in Wicklow:

My first question is about you – and the people that work within your Centre – you guys see what no one should – you see animals suffering daily, you live in a reality that is most of our worst nightmares.. how do you cope with doing what you do? Does it affect your health – or your mentality?     

Yes, it is a very difficult job at times. Our primary team in the stables is Shelly and Wendy and they are absolutely amazing. They go over and above for every horse and pony that comes in. Occasionally a horse or pony does not make it or may have to be euthanized on veterinary advice and this is very tough on them. Just recently a foal that came in which should have been still with its mother (but sadly the mother was dead), died after a few days of 24 hours care and daily veterinary treatment. Everyone was devastated. However the rest of the group are recovering really well and are starting to show their characters and this makes it all worthwhile.   

Can you share with us – the worst case of animal cruelty, or neglect that will stay with you forever?  

O Gosh, there are a few that I will never forget.  I think a current horse that we have in care, came in as a 3 year old stallion.  He had been locked in a shed for at least a year and was literally skin and bone.  His hooves were also terrible and we feared that there would be internal damage within the hooves.  Luckily there was not and thanks to the great care he received he made a great recovery and is doing really well.  

 I refer to everyone in rescue, as “Earth Angels” – because you all are. Selflessly helping these animals, working all hours and always being ready to help. Do you ever stop and think of all the amazing work you do – and what an incredible person you are for doing so? Modesty doesn’t belong here – so please answer freely!

I don’t think animal welfare people think like that.  We just want to help animals that have been let down by other human beings.  Personally I don’t have to do as much of the hands on work as I would have done years ago which I am thankful for because you never get used to it.  In fact I became worse able to deal with it emotionally as the years went on.   

Do you fear for the future of Irish animals? It seems to be getting worse with no end in sight, despite having some of the strictest animal welfare laws in Europe – judges are just not giving the apt punishments and police are limited in their capabilities.  Do you see ever see things getting better? 

I see a lot of improvement over the past 15 years.  Updates to legislation and the Animal Health & Welfare legislation is helping greatly.  However there will always be people who don’t care about animals and I think humanity has a way to go yet before that changes.  On the upside, there is much more awareness and in general the vast majority of people do not want animals harmed and will stand up for them.   

How do you think Ireland compares with the likes of the UK – who to me – seems to deal a lot better with animal welfare control..

It’s hard to know, if you look at most countries in the world they have their own issues even the UK. 

 Other than seeing these animals go onto have amazing lives once safe and well – what would you say is the most rewarding part of what you do?  

Seeing them come back to health.

 I would imagine it is incredibly hard not to form bonds and love with these animals you care so much for – often – animal rescuers are the first point of contact that show love and kindness to so many of them – do you think saying goodbye to that animal is as hard on them, as it is for you, when the move onto new homes?

To be honest, there are always so many more to look after that it is just great when an animal goes off to a home to start a new life but of course it’s a little sad for those who cared for them too. 

What advice would you give to anyone who is looking to get involved with an animal rescue center such as yours? Is there any advice you wish you’d been given before you started? Start off volunteering doing whatever you can, whether hands on or fundraising.

Finally – has you ever rescued an animal that you just couldn’t let get away and adopted yourself?  

Yes !  I have a little mule here at home that was rescued at an hour old when the mother donkey died giving birth.  My daughter and I hand reared her with a bottle, feeding her initially every hour (including through the night) for the first month until she could go to a few hours between feeds.