The Blue Cross has released new figures which show that more horse owners may be struggling financially to keep their horse.

So far this year the charity says it has received 144 requests from people asking for it to take in or help rehome their horse or pony through the Blue Cross Home Direct service.

More than 70% cited personal or financial circumstances as the reason.

In comparison for the full year of 2021, 43 (or around 15%) of a total of 277 intake and rehoming requests specified financial reasons.

In 2020 a total of 32 (around 14%) out of 231 requests stated financial reasons.

Annabelle Taylor, Rehoming Coordinator at Blue Cross, said: “It is distressing to see that the number of people seeking rehoming support because of financial reasons is already more than double last year’s annual total and we still have a third of the year to go.

PS: Whilst you're here, take a moment to see our latest job opportunities for vets.