The Centre was visited recently by representatives from the European Equine Welfare Association which has been formed in Finland. They were interested to hear about the welfare problems of equines in Spain as most of their work to date has been in Portugal. ARCH president Jill and Veronica from Refugio del Burrito filled them in on the challenges faced and the work done by both charities. The EEWA wants to create effective and concrete methods for changing the welfare situation of horses in Europe. Everyone is in agreement that education is probably the most effective method of ensuring any change for the better – education of those in authority, the general public and the younger generation. With that in mind ARCH are hosting another “children’s day” this month with pupils coming from the El Pinar School in Alhaurin de la Torre. The day is designed for the children, many of whom are afraid of animals, to have the chance to meet the horses and donkeys and learn about their histories and their care. And, of course, we continue to welcome visitors on our open Sunday mornings.
ARCH attended the first Animalhaurin event held on the Feria ground in Alhaurin el Grande last month (postponed from the September weekend of the storms). A rota of volunteers manned the stall talking to the public about our work and creating awareness of how vital it is. Our vet Rocio came with her nephew and his son on horseback and our picture appeared in the English paper. The event was also featured on local TV. We are getting a much higher profile in the local community these days and many more visitors to the Centre.
