melissa

Copied from Intelligent horsemanship website: On Sunday I went with a friend to look at some horses that, mostly, have been imported from Spain to be fattened up for the meat trade. Sadly, their long journey will be doubled by the time they finally end up at the abattoir - in Italy. Yes, Italy. The man that buys them cheaply in Spain (no grazing there) has them shipped to his fattening farm north of Tours (Dept 41) and sends them to Italy as he gets a better price and also they'll take anything - mares in foal included (for which he gets a better price as he's paid by the kilo). My friend bought a feisty spanish gelding for 600 Euros who's going to be quite something and a chap who came with us ended up buying a beautiful Breton mare and a donkey to keep her company. This is the website used by some French people who want to find homes for these horses before their last horrendous journey - http://nouvelle-vie.ephpbb.com/ Obviously it's in French and I think to view the horses you have to join. They are listed on the forum. There are many other horses on there seeking good homes. I know it's a long shot, but if anyone feels able to make the journey over and save some of these gorgeous animals from slaughter......he's asking only meat money so they are extremely cheap by UK standards. Here's a picture of two of the Percherons who are due to leave the 'farm' soon.... http://www.justgiving.com/chanellie An appeal has been started following a thread on IHDG about fattening  farms on the continent and concerns for the welfare of horses who not only live in dreadful conditions but have to travel long distance before reaching slaughter houses.  The thread can be read here   http://ihdg.proboards91.com/index.cgi?board=talk2&action=display&thread=1184191735 Should the appeal not reach it's target the money held will be passed on to ILPH to help with their work in Europe. http://www.justgiving.com/chanellie Donating through this site is simple, fast and totally secure. It is also the most efficient way to help  EQUINE MARKET WATCH (Sanctuaries UK) will receive your money faster and, if you are a UK taxpayer, an extra 28% in tax will be added to your gift at no cost to you. http://www.justgiving.com/chanellie So please help us now! Many thanks for your support.