Totem Horses takes in a wide range of equines from England and Wales, with many historically coming via the RSPCA. From nervous youngsters to those in their golden years and everything in between, whatever the age, gender and circumstance Totem Horses strive to bring these equines back to a state where they can enjoy a good quality of life.

Many of the horses we take in may not be accepted by larger equine rescue organisations, or have come to us because everywhere else is full - so for most of our equine guests we really are what saves them from a bleak future.

We work with them on a daily basis to gain their trust and eliminate behaviors brought on by mistreatment or lack of handling. Once that is accomplished, we go back to basics and train the horses accordingly ready to find a loan home of their own.

Just some of the barriers we face in our mission to rescue and re-home

Cushings Disease

Mud Fever

Depression

Rain Scald

Laminitis

Ring Bone

Lice

Underweight

As well as their physical health, many of our horses and ponies have often had little or no handling. Often what they have had has been rough, teaching them early on that people should be feared. This fear can manifest itself in everything from not wanting to come near you to actively wanting to kick or bite you.

We totally oppose the 'stronger bit,
bigger stick' approach

Whenever possible we try to use natural horsemanship techniques. Taking the time to understand the animals that are brought to us is the most vital part of rehabilitation. No understanding ,no results. Patience and time equals happy, healthy horses and we are always learning with every animal we take in.

Re-homing our horses

We believe most equines are happiest when they have a job to do and wherever possible we try and re-home our charges to ridden or driven homes. However, sometimes health conditions or past trauma may mean this is not an option for all of our horses and ponies, so they will be re-homed as companions, often proving useful nannies to youngsters.

We do not sell horses. We do, however, look for loan homes for our horses and sign them over after two years - so we can take in and help more.

We are looking for people who can offer a Totem horse a 'forever home' and will be happy to continue to care for them, long after retirement. For this reason they do out on an initial two year loan to ensure they are a good match and their new carer is committed to their long term well being before we will sign over ownership.