Horses and Ponies Protection Association

The Horses and Ponies Protection Association is one of the oldest and most respected charities for equine welfare. Founded in 1937 to help fight against transportation of large horses to the continent for slaughter, HAPPA continues to play a major role in all aspects of equine welfare.

Our welfare officers investigate over 800 cases of cruelty and neglect each year, offering advice and support where possible and preventing cruelty by intervention and prosecution where necessary.

HAPPA have two fully equipped Rescue Centres to ensure that all rescued and abandoned equines are restored lovingly back to health. Our Centres, based in Lancashire and Gwent, each care for approx 80 equines at any one time at a cost of £11,900 EVERY WEEK. We treat each animal as an individual and never sell our horses, ponies and donkeys. Instead, we place all suitable animals in private homes through our legally binding loan scheme or continue to care for those with special needs at the most appropriate Rescue Centre. We currently have over 500 equines on loan throughout the UK.

Legacies provide a vital source of income for HAPPA and enable us to repair and improve facilities at our Rescue Centres. Our newest stable block was constructed thanks to a recent legacy and even the most modest contribution can help us to provide specialist care for suffering animals.

Our valuable work could not continue without donations and legacies so please consider HAPPA when making your will and leave a legacy of love for abused and neglected equines.