Impoverished horse and donkey owners in Romania cannot afford regular shoeing, dental treatment, deworming, or other veterinary care for their animals. This takes a toll on the well-being and health of these hard-working animals: poor shoeing, shoes left on far too long, parasite infestations, and teeth that develop such sharp points that the animals can barely eat often lead to a sad end. Animals so sick, weak, or injured that they can no longer work are unfortunately often abandoned. Acquiring a new animal is cheaper than providing veterinary care for the old one.
This is where the SUST working horse aid program comes in: During these events, SUST staff carry out urgently needed professional dental treatments and farriery. They also administer deworming treatments and treat minor and major wounds. At the same time, horse equipment is distributed free of charge to owners in need: halters, lead ropes, ear ties, brushes, and much more are given to people who could never afford these items for their hardworking animals. In addition, SUST children's books on the proper handling of working horses and donkeys are given to the children of the owners.
