Three Therapy Horses Begin Retirement at The Horse Trust

The Horse Trust is delighted to welcome three remarkable horses – Jezz, Vella and Bill – into their forever home in the peaceful Chiltern Hills, where they will enjoy a well-deserved retirement after years of extraordinary service in equine-assisted therapy.

Each of these special horses has spent their working lives transforming the lives of people with disabilities, and we are honoured to offer them the rest, care and companionship they now so richly deserve. Only a limited number of Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) ponies and horses retire here each year, so we are always especially pleased when these wonderful animals come through our gates.

Meet Jezz

A gentle Arab cross with a curious spirit, Jezz dedicated over 13 years to Beechley Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) in Liverpool. Much-loved by volunteers and riders alike, she took part in therapy sessions, taught vet students equine care skills, and competed at the RDA National Championships. Jezz was instrumental in delivering hippotherapy sessions – a form of physical, occupational, and speech therapy that uses the horse’s movement to provide sensory input – and even participated in special events at Aintree Racecourse in partnership with the Jockey Club. Now, following recovery from a tendon injury, she’s enjoying a tranquil retirement in the Chilterns.

Learn more about Jezz here.

Introducing Vella

Vella, affectionately known as Velly, brought confidence and joy to riders at Barrow Farm RDA in Essex for more than seven years. A striking Irish Sports Horse x Cob, she supported students with additional educational needs and was specially trained as a hoist pony. Vella also took part in regional and national competitions, often with great success. With her gentle nature and springy trot, she was the perfect balance of calmness and challenge. She’s now making the most of her retirement – with a muddy roll never far off!

Visit Vella’s profile here.

Celebrating Bill

Bill, a sensitive and steadfast blue roan skewbald gelding, retired from Gaddesden Place RDA in Hemel Hempstead after six years of dedicated service. Known for his intelligence and sweet temperament – like Jezz – Bill was a vital part of hippotherapy sessions for children with complex needs, always patient and dependable even in emotional or challenging circumstances. Although now retired due to arthritis, he remains full of character and continues to bring joy to those who meet him.

Visit Bill’s profile.

Jeanette Allen, Chief Executive Officer of The Horse Trust, said:

We are incredibly proud to welcome Jezz, Vella and Bill into their well-earned retirement with us. These exceptional horses have spent their lives supporting people with disabilities through equine-assisted therapy, and now it’s our turn to give back to them. Every horse that joins our Home of Rest is given the highest standard of care, comfort and companionship, and we’re honoured to offer them a peaceful home for the rest of their days.

A New Chapter for Horses Like Jezz, Vella and Bill

While Jezz, Vella and Bill are now enjoying the next chapter of their lives, many more retired, respite, and rescued horses are still waiting for a place to call home.

As part of our Spring Appeal, The Horse Trust is calling on the public to help us expand our sanctuary to care for up to 50 more horses in need. With every gift, you’ll help provide shelter, safety and specialist care to horses who have spent their lives serving others.

Just £20 could help buy a metre of fence and open up this vital new space.

Please consider supporting our Home for More Horses campaign today – every donation, no matter the size, makes a real difference.

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