An introduction to Ikkos equine sanctuary

Ikkos equine sanctuary was set up in October 2007 with the arrival of Venus, Baby, Aramus and Achilles. From then the sanctuary has grown into what it is today. We have now rescued 13 horses and 2 donkeys all of which were in need of a loving new home. Most of them had been badly abused or neglected. For example:

Orion was abandoned in a barren paddock all alone at the age of 5 months and his mother had been sold (he should have still been suckling). He didn't realise he was a horse and had no idea how to interact with the other equines, he didn't even know how to play when the other foals tried to play with him.

Another very sad case was Zeus-Apollo:

He was strapped into a cart and whipped until he couldn't walk another step. He collapsed in front of the cart and was left by the side of the road. When the owners returned he could barely stand and they kicked him repeatedly in the face until he stood. They then drove him all the way home in the cart. He has no front teeth and absolutely hated people when he first arrived but he is recovering brilliantly and learning to trust people again after a lot of patience and tender loving care.

These are only 2 examples of the sad cases we have seen since setting up the sanctuary in 2007 but most of our equines at the sanctuary have had similar frightening and life changing experiences.

With a lot of time, patience and tender loving care our equines are learning to trust people again and learning to enjoy life!

Equine Therapy and eco horse riding trails and tours at Ikkos equine sanctuary

Ikkos eco horse riding trails and tours. An outstanding equestrian experience, run by Laura Jane McIlrath - A.K.A - The Meerkat Lady.Situated in The Meerkat Magic Valley in association with The Meerkat Magic Conservation Project around Oudtshoorn, Western Cape of South Africa.

Relax with our gentle, friendly horses in this beautiful landscape, an experience for the entire family! We also offer a variety of unique equine activities that you can't do anywhere else in or around Oudtshoorn, Western Cape of South Africa.

If you don't want to ride we offer equine therapy - come out and walk our horses, ponies and donkeys out in the bush for a relaxing, laid back, leisurely stroll.Also there is the opportunity for you to come out and spend an hour or two grooming, feeding and getting to know our horses and find out more about equine health, care and behaviour and have the opportunity to ask any questions you may have about equines in general.
A very special gift for yourself or a loved one. If you attend an equine therapy session, you will receive a free personalised goody bag full of treats to remind you of your time with us!
You can make a difference to the lives of previously abused or abandoned equines!

The Greek word for horse is Ikkos, also meaning the "Great Light", come and enjoy our enlightening all round equestrian experience.

visit http://www.meerkatmagic.com/ and click on one of the Ikkos Eco horse trails and tours on the home page for more information.
Your help and support is greatly appreciated!
THANK-YOU!