The Household Cavalry (HCMR) is looking for potential retirement homes for its much-loved horses after they finish their working careers.
Former service horse Hendrix is one of those looking for a peaceful new life after serving the HCMR for 12 years.
The 18-year-old black gelding performed at many state occasions throughout his career, but was recently retired from ridden work.
Hendrix was an “impeccable servant” and “a real gentleman”.
(Image credit: creditUnknown)
“We are looking for a home that can provide a field companion home for him, he can be stabled overnight if necessary, but he does need access to daily turnout,” said an HCMR spokesman.
“After a lifetime of honourable service, our military working horses deserve a relaxing and comfortable retirement. We are currently looking for people who feel they can offer this to one of our beloved horses.
“Some of these treasured horses have minor veterinary issues, which means they cannot be ridden in their retirement years.”
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The HCMR will be releasing details of additional horses in need of retirement homes in the future, but reminded the public that
none of their animals would be put to sleep should a suitable home not be found immediately.
(Image credit: creditUnknown)
“Those horses who are not snapped up may just have to wait a little longer at the Defence Animal Training Regiment before reaching their forever homes,” added the spokesman.
“We also have a very close relationship with the Horse Trust, who have taken on many of our retired horses over the years.
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(Image credit: Pictures by Sgt Paul Randall @armyinlondon)
“Although no longer suitable for military service, many of these horses are not ready to fully retire to pasture yet, which is why we first seek a new loving home for them where they can receive the one-on-one attention they deserve.
“None of our horses are put to sleep if they can not be homed. The rehoming process is conducted with the utmost interest of these beautiful creatures.”
Those wishing to find out more about Hendrix should contact Kerry.alford432@mod.gov.uk
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Rachael joined Horse & Hound in 2014, initially as a digital sub editor then became part of the news team as a writer in 2015. The philosophy graduate studied journalism at the Press Association before working as a local reporter at the Brentwood Gazette. Rachael is now a mum of two and still loves all things equestrian, including hacking, dressage and jumping with her cob Bert. Rachael left the H&H staff to go freelance in June 2019, but still contributes to our magazine and website, as well as our sister magazine Country Life, among others.
