CHRISTMAS is traditionally a time for thinking of others; it’s also a time for giving. So we usually turn our minds to those who most need our help, those who have or are currently suffering.

Charity income has generally significantly suffered in the pandemic, and this at a time when the need for charitable services has increased – a double whammy some organisations won’t survive. So if you have it to give, give it to an organisation supporting horses and horsey people.

Make the gift of caring this winter

The Donkey Sanctuary Ireland

What’s Christmas without a donkey? Make a donation or support them by visiting their online shop for some fun stocking fillers!

https://ihwt.ie

The Irish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals

The ISPCA has a wide range of wonderful Christmas gifts available on its website that are perfect for animals lovers young and old.

https://ihwt.ie/ISPCA

Irish Injured Jockeys

You can help support IIJ by purchasing some of their quality merchandise as a stocking filler. They sell a wide range of baseball caps, beanies, travel mugs, notepads and shopping bags on their website or exclusively at TRI Equestrian at the Curragh.

https://www.irishinjuredjockeys.com

Treo Eile: Retraining Ireland’s Racehorses

Support Treo Eile to give our equine athletes a new career off-track and make a donation through their website.

https://www.treoeile.com

Irish Horse Welfare Trust

How about a little festive fostering? You can foster a horse or pony, make a donation or set up a monthly direct debit online through their website. https://ihwt.ie

Crosskennan Lane Animal Sanctuary

How do you wrap a Shetland pony? Sponsor or adopt at Crosskennan Lane Animal Sanctuary or buy something special from their online shop. Great stocking filler ideas.

https://www.crosskennanlane.co.uk

My Lovely Horse Rescue

Be a Father Christmas this year and fundraise for some of our animals in need. You can support My Lovely Horse Rescue by adopting a rescue, raising money or donating through their website. www.mylovelyhorserescue.com

Hungry Horse Outside

Bring and buy and feed a rescue – can you donate to the Hungry Horse Outsdie charity shop? You can visit the shop at: Unit A Hibernian Court, Longford town, or donate easily via www.hungryhorseoutside.com