Reported by R.F.M. Suhel – Nuwara Eliya
The first phase of providing nutritious animal feed, essential medicines, and vaccines to the animals used for pony rides was carried out on the 5th, during a special medical clinic held to address diseases caused by natural disasters triggered by adverse weather conditions experienced both globally and in Sri Lanka. These ponies have played a significant role in the development of the domestic tourism industry in Nuwara Eliya and across the country. Sri Lanka Latest News
This initiative was coordinated and supported by the Sri Lanka Horse Society, together with the Nuwara Eliya Municipal Council.
It is noteworthy that many members of the Sri Lanka Horse Society, along with animal lovers, made financial contributions towards this care program.
The first phase of the program was implemented accordingly, and it is expected that these welfare services will continue in multiple phases until the disaster situation subsides and tourists return to Nuwara Eliya.
Out of the more than 150 ponies used for pony tours within the Nuwara Eliya city limits, infected animals received treatment, while nutritional feed, medicines, and treats were distributed to 50 pony owners.
The animal feed distributed through this initiative is sufficient for a period of ten days to two weeks, and further distributions are expected in the future.
Additionally, a stock of medicines and vaccines was donated to pony riders to be used in cases where animals fall ill due to natural disasters.
Benefited pony owners expressed their gratitude, stating that despite various relief efforts being extended across the country during the disaster period, they especially appreciate the support given by the Sri Lanka Horse Society at a time when pony owners—who play a vital role in the Sri Lankan tourism industry—had been largely forgotten.
Several pony owners shared the following sentiments:
“When the country was facing floods and landslides, taking care of our animals became a major challenge.
We had to spend as much on caring for these animals as we did on feeding our own families, and we had no one to share our struggles with.
That was when we requested the Sri Lanka Horse Association to provide some support.
We are deeply grateful for the care they have extended to us until tourists return and our economy recovers.
Just like humans, animals also need food and water during the rainy season. As a government, research should be conducted regarding this, and we regret that no such research has taken place. However, moving forward, we—who contribute greatly to the tourism industry—will also look into this area. If we receive any support from the government, we will work tirelessly to strengthen the economy by further promoting the tourism industry.”
