Friendicoes Equine Program - April 2022

As always, the Friendicoes team had a busy month in April with the Equine Program.

They dealt with the common issue of colic - becoming even more common with the average daily temperature in north India being 49 degrees, with inadequate shade from trees. For the animals working at the brick kilns, it is even worse, where the land is flat clay with no shade at all.

A disappointing case was that of a horse having been beaten by a neighbour, causing a sizeable wound, and sadly in the interest of the brick kiln community, the complaint was not registered.

There were also fencing wire injuries, road accident injuries and a lacerated cheek caused by a hook tearing the soft muzzle of a horse. All injuries were treated and will be monitored closely for healing and recovery.

The team also distributed soft, padded ‘back mattresses’ for the working animals at the brick kiln. These will help prevent back injuries and sores caused by the heavy loads of bricks and the friction of those loads against the backs of the animals.

Lastly, Friendicoes also rescued three retired mounts from the Delhi Police. Anmol, who is 20 years old, Rozy, 21 years old and Rangila, 18 years old have all earned their retirement and to now rest and be cared for in a safe environment.