Thursday, March 28, 2024
HomeFeaturesequestrianThe horse rescuers

The horse rescuers

-

Gill Cure meets a couple who have devoted themselves to saving horses.

Horse rescuer Sue Gessey

Ten years ago Sue Gessey was introduced to the alternative healing therapy, reiki. Having been off work for a considerable time, she showed remarkable recovery after a few reiki treatments.

Sue was hooked, and she spent three years in Manchester qualifying as a reiki practitioner. She then returned to Worcestershire to practise. In 2004 she went as a volunteer helper to a horse rescue in Feckenham – she really enjoyed this job and gained some vital equestrian experience.

Sadly, due to lack of funds, the rescue centre had to close. Sue had land at her home and agreed to rehome Billy, an ex-racehorse who had been mistreated, and Daisy, a retired showjumper who had lost confidence and suffered depression.

By 2006, reiki treatment for horses had taken off, and Sue was busy travelling all over the Midlands with her work. She was also becoming known for treating and homing sick and mistreated horses and ponies.

The number of rescued horses has now increased to ten. They come in all shapes and sizes – to name a few, there’s Inka, a quarter horse who suffered lameness and has been treated with Bowen technique and reiki therapy; Bobby, an abused riding school pony, and Faith and her foal Michael. Faith had been used in animal experiments and Sue travelled across the country to reunite her with Michael.

Wythall Horse Rescue is Sue and her partner Richard’s life; they have given up their comfortable home to help fund the centre. At the moment they are in the process of becoming a registered charity. The charity funding currently only creates 25 per cent of the required income.

Sue explains, “People can sponsor a pony for only £3 a month. They receive a photo, certificate, newsletters and can visit their pony by appointment.” She adds, “More volunteers are always welcome – they can help with feeding, grooming and general maintenance.”

The land at Wythall was acquired at the end of last year and offers 20 acres of grazing. Sue enthuses, “My vision is to educate people in horses’ feelings. I want eventually to be able to offer somewhere to bring inner-city children to learn about horses, and create a rehabilitation sanctuary.”

On May 2, Bank Holiday Monday, the rescue centre is holding an open day where visitors can find out more about The Animal Healing Trust, and meet Sue, Richard and the horses.

Further details are available from Sue on 07780 698393 or https://www.animalhealingtrust.org