Blindlove Cart horse Project, Grahamstown, East Cape South Africa- April Update
What a productive month you have contributed towards, for the Blindlove team in tending to the welfare of working horses as part of its Carthorse Program in Grahamstown, South Africa. Essential Medical care was provided, harnesses were distributed, and a workshop on sustainable feed was presented. The team has received many messages of gratitude from the horse owners. You will find these in the progress report from Agripreneur Farmers Institute, which carries out our outreach work with the cart horse community in Thaba'nchu each month.
Primary Healthcare
During April, our outreach work focused on Primary healthcare and
treating minor wounds and injuries. All horses that attended outreaches were
treated for external parasites like ticks and flies and internal parasites like worms.
Humane harnesses distributed
12 humane harnesses were distributed. These
replace old, broken, ill-fitting harnesses that cause most injuries we see.
We held our second 3-day farrier outreach with Mr Zulu Xolisi, who travelled all the
way down from Gauteng. Zulu trimmed and correctly shod all horses that
attended. These farrier outreach days also educate owners about
proper hoof care and their ability to work comfortably.
Seeds of Ubuntu Project
On Saturday 6th April, The Agripreneur farmers team also held a training workshop for
our 'Seeds of Ubuntu' Project, which aims to provide a more sustainable long-term
source of good quality feed to the cart horse and greater horse-owning community
of Thaba'nchu and surrounding villages. We are very excited about where this
project might lead for everyone involved( especially the horses)!! They had over 30
attendants on the day.
Agripreneur Farmers Institute's Progress Report
Introduction
Carthorses, esteemed for their strength and resilience, have been cherished members of the Thaba’nchu community for generations. Nestled within the Free State Province of South Africa, Thaba’Nchu town embodies a rich agricultural legacy, where carthorses have long been indispensable partners in cultivating the land and transporting goods. Amidst this backdrop, the welfare of these noble equines holds paramount importance, shaping the fabric of community life and livelihoods.
This report focuses on the welfare of carthorses in Thaba’Nchu town, delving into the multifaceted dimensions of their care and well-being. Against the backdrop of tradition and progress, we seek to assess the current state of carthorse welfare, explore initiatives aimed at enhancing their quality of life, and advocate for sustainable solutions that honour their contributions to our community.
Objectives of the Report
1. Historical Significance: To provide insights into the historical significance of carthorses in Thaba’nchu town and their enduring role in local agriculture and transportation.
2. Welfare Assessment: To conduct a comprehensive assessment of carthorse welfare in Thaba’nchu, examining existing practices, regulatory frameworks, and stakeholder perspectives.
3. Treatment of Wounds: To evaluate the treatment of wounds and injuries among carthorse in Thaba’nchu, identifying gaps in veterinary care and opportunities for improvement.
4. Feed Security Programme: To assess the effectiveness of the feed security programme recently launched in Thaba’nchu, examining its impact on carthorse nutrition and well-being.
5. Shoeing: To examine the practice of shoeing among carthorses in Thaba’nchu, considering its implications for hoof health, mobility, and comfort.
Through this localized exploration, we endeavour to shine a spotlight on the welfare of carthorses in Thaba Nchu town, amplifying their voices and advocating for their compassionate and dignified treatment in our shared community.
BACKGROUND
Carthorses have been integral to the fabric of life in Thaba’nchu for centuries, serving as indispensable partners in both work and cultural traditions. Historically, carthorses were relied upon as a primary mode of transport, carrying out heavy duties that required the transportation of goods, materials, and people across the town and its surrounding areas. Their strength, endurance, and reliability made them invaluable assets in facilitating commerce, agriculture, and everyday life.
Moreover, carthorses played a central role in Thaba’nchu's cultural heritage, embodying the spirit of tradition and community. Among the Barolong Boo Seleka tribe, one of the prominent ethnic groups in the region, carthorses held special significance in marriage ceremonies. According to tradition, carthorses were used to transport the groom and the bride during wedding processions, symbolizing the union of families and the journey into a new chapter of life. This ritual not only underscored the importance of carthorses in tribal customs but also celebrated their revered status as symbols of strength, unity, and prosperity.
Despite the evolution of transportation technologies and modernization in Thaba’nchu, carthorses continue to play a vital role in the town's socio-economic and cultural landscape. While motor vehicles have become more prevalent for transportation purposes, carthorses remain indispensable
in specific contexts, particularly in agricultural activities and ceremonial events. Their enduring presence reflects the enduring bond between Thaba’nchu's residents and these noble equines, rooted in a shared history of resilience, companionship, and cultural heritage.
Methodology:
Outreach Locations:
•The horse welfare outreach program focused on the Thaba’nchu Carthorse Rank, a central location where many working horses are stationed.
Frequency of Visits:
•The outreach team visited the Thaba’nchu Carthorse Rank four times within the reporting period.
Outreach Activities:
1. Health Check-ups and Treatment of Wounds:
•During each visit, the outreach team conducted health check-ups on the horses, identifying any wounds or injuries requiring treatment.
•Medications and veterinary care were provided to treat wounds and injuries, including cleaning, disinfection, and dressing of wounds to promote healing and prevent infection.
2. Replacement of Old Harnesses:
•The outreach team inspected the harnesses used by the horses, identifying any signs of wear and tear or damage.
•Old or damaged harnesses were replaced with new ones to ensure the safety and comfort of the horses during work activities.
3. Hoof Trimming and Shoeing:
•Mr. Zulu, a skilled farrier from Gauteng, was invited to join the outreach program for three days.
•Mr. Zulu performed hoof trimming and shoeing services for the horses, addressing issues such as overgrowth, uneven wear, and hoof imbalances.
•A total of 26 horses were treated during the outreach program, with 11 horses receiving new shoes and 16 horses receiving hoof trimming, including the 11 that received shoes.
4. Information Session on Horse Farriery:
•On the second day of shoeing, an information session on horse farriery was conducted for relevant stakeholders.
•The session aimed to educate stakeholders on the importance of proper hoof care and the role of farriers in maintaining equine hoof health.
Collaboration and Resources:
•The outreach program was conducted in collaboration with local stakeholders, including community leaders, horse owners, and veterinary professionals.
• The outreach team provided resources such as medications, dressings, harnesses, and farrier tools to ensure the successful implementation of the activities.
Partnerships and Support:
•The horse welfare outreach program was made possible through the support and partnership of Animal Aid Abroad from Australia and Blindlove Afrika from the Eastern Cape.
•These organizations provided funding, resources, and expertise to support the outreach activities and improve the welfare of working horses in Thaba’nchu.
Outreach Activities:
1. Health Check-ups and Treatment of Wounds:
•The outreach team conducted thorough health check-ups on each horse present at the Thaba’nchu Carthorse Rank during each visit.
•Wounds, injuries, and any signs of health issues were identified and assessed by the veterinary professionals.
•Medications, dressings, and treatments were administered to address wounds, promote healing, and prevent infections.
•Follow-up care instructions were provided to horse owners and caretakers to ensure proper wound management and recovery.
2. Replacement of Old Harnesses:
•The harnesses used by the horses were inspected for signs of wear and tear, damage, or improper fit.
•Old or damaged harnesses were replaced with new ones provided by the outreach team to ensure the horses' safety, comfort, and welfare during work activities.
•Proper fitting and adjustment of the new harnesses were ensured to prevent the horses' discomfort, rubbing, or injuries.
3. Hoof Trimming and Shoeing:
•Mr. During his three-day visit, Zulu, the skilled farrier from Gauteng, conducted hoof trimming and shoeing services for the horses.
•Each horse's hooves were carefully inspected for overgrowth, uneven wear, cracks, or other abnormalities.
•Hooves were trimmed and shaped to maintain proper balance and alignment, promoting soundness and preventing lameness.
•For horses requiring additional support or protection, new shoes were fitted and securely attached to the hooves to provide traction and support during work activities.
4. Information Session on Horse Farriery:
•An information session on horse farriery was conducted on the second shoeing day, targeting relevant stakeholders such as horse owners, caretakers, and community members.
•The session covered topics such as the importance of proper hoof care, common hoof problems, and the role of farriers in maintaining equine hoof health.•
Practical demonstrations and discussions were facilitated to enhance understanding and awareness of horse farriery practices and their impact on equine welfare.
Outcomes:
1. Improved Health and Well-being of Horses:
• Due to the health check-ups and treatment provided during the outreach program, the overall health and well-being of the horses at the Thaba’nchu Carthorse Rank improved significantly.
•Wounds were effectively treated, infections were prevented, and health issues were addressed promptly, enhancing the horses' comfort and quality of life.
2. Enhanced Safety and Comfort through New Harnesses:
•The replacement of old or damaged harnesses with new ones contributed to the safety and comfort of the horses during work activities.
•Properly fitted and adjusted harnesses reduced the risk of discomfort, rubbing, and injuries, ensuring the horses could perform their work tasks more comfortably and efficiently.
3. Optimized Hoof Health and Functionality:
•Hoof trimming and shoeing services provided by Mr Zulu resulted in optimized hoof health and functionality for the horses.
•Overgrown hooves were trimmed to maintain proper balance and alignment, reducing the risk of lameness and hoof-related issues.
•Horses receiving new shoes benefited from improved traction, support, and protection during work activities, enhancing their overall performance and well-being.
4. Increased Awareness and Knowledge of Horse Farriery:
•The information session on horse farriery facilitated greater awareness and understanding of proper hoof care practices among relevant stakeholders.
•Horse owners, caretakers, and community members gained valuable insights into the importance of regular hoof maintenance and the role of farriers in promoting equine welfare.
•Practical demonstrations and discussions gave participants actionable knowledge and skills to implement best practices in hoof care and farriery.
5. Partnership and Collaboration for Sustainable Impact:
•The successful implementation of the horse welfare outreach program was made possible through the support and partnership of Animal Aid Abroad from Australia and Blindlove Afrika from the Eastern Cape.
•These organizations' contributions and collaboration enhanced the program's reach, effectiveness, and sustainability, ensuring that the positive impact on equine welfare could be sustained over time this month.
6. Long-term Benefits for Horse Owners and the Community:
•By improving the horses' health, well-being, and working conditions, the outreach program generated long-term benefits for horse owners, caretakers, and the community.
•Healthy, well-cared-for horses are better able to perform their work tasks effectively, contributing to the livelihoods and economic stability of their owners and the community.
Success Stories:
1. Improved Work Performance and Comfort:
• "Since the outreach program, my horse has been performing much better at work. He moves more comfortably and efficiently with the new harness and properly trimmed hooves. I've noticed a significant difference in his demeanour and energy levels." - Horse Owner (Dibocho)
2. Healing of Wounds and Injuries:
• "I was worried about my horse's leg wound, but thanks to the outreach team's treatment and care, it's healing nicely. They provided medication, cleaned the wound, and gave me instructions for further care. I'm relieved to see my horse recovering well." - Horse Owner (Kaizer)
3. Educational Empowerment:
• "The information session on horse farriery was incredibly informative and eye-opening. As a horse owner, I now understand the importance of regular hoof care and the role of farriers in maintaining equine health. I feel more empowered to take better care of my horse." - Community Member Mokoena location
Testimonials:
1. Community Impact:
• "The horse welfare outreach program has significantly impacted our community. The horses' health and well-being have improved, and there's also been a noticeable change in how people perceive and care for their animals.
We're grateful for the support and resources provided by the outreach team."
– Community Member Ratau location
2. Gratitude from Horse Owners:
• "I can't thank the outreach team enough for what they've done for my horse. The treatment, new harness, and farriery services have made a world of difference. My horse is happier, healthier, and working better than ever before. Thank you for caring for our horses." - Horse Owner (Tumelo Lepota)
Conclusion:
The horse welfare outreach program has been a resounding success, demonstrating the power of collaboration, compassion, and community engagement in improving equine welfare and promoting sustainable development. Through our dedicated efforts and the support of partners like Animal Aid Abroad and Blindlove Afrika, we have made significant strides in enhancing horses' health, well-being, and working conditions in the Thaban’chu area.
From providing essential veterinary care and treatment to replacing old harnesses and offering farriery services, our outreach activities have made a tangible difference in the lives of both horses and their owners. We've witnessed wounds heal, hooves trimmed, and horses move with newfound comfort and confidence, reflecting the positive impact of our interventions.
Moreover, the outreach program has fostered greater awareness, empowerment, and community involvement in equine welfare. Through educational sessions, practical demonstrations, and stakeholder engagement, we've empowered horse owners and caretakers with knowledge and resources to better care for their animals, ensuring the sustainability of our efforts for years to come.
As we reflect on the outcomes and testimonials shared, it's clear that our collective efforts have improved the lives of individual horses and contributed to the well-being and resilience of the entire community. By continuing to work together, collaborate with partners, and prioritize equine welfare, we can build upon these successes and create a brighter future for horses and communities alike.
In closing, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to Animal Aid Abroad in Australia for making this outreach program possible - from our dedicated team members to the horse owners, caretakers, and community members who have embraced our efforts. Together, we have made a meaningful difference, and we will continue to strive for positive change and lasting impact in the world of equine welfare.
Sincerely,
Agripreneur Farmers Institute
Oats seeds that were planted by some of the cart horse owners are coming up nicely!