A CANINE creative partnership will raise money for neglected horses and ponies.

Estate agent Clarke Gammon Wellers has sponsored a Haslemere Hound decorated by leading animal portrait artist Georgea Blakey, which will be auctioned in aid of RSPCA Lockwood Centre, Wormley.

The artwork Horse and Hound is currently on display in the window of Clarke Gammon Wellers office in Haslemere High Street.

Lockwood manager Patricia Spargo said: “We are thrilled to be the chosen charity for this beautiful hound.

“Any money raised will go directly towards caring for our rescued horses and ponies here at the equine centre, and in particular towards a specialist veterinary treatment area we are hoping to install, where those poor horses who come in with injuries can be treated.

“Sadly, the most neglected and poorly-treated horses in the country come into our care. The work we do is absolutely vital to rehabilitate them, so they can be found a loving new home.

“We’re so grateful for any support we receive and thank everyone involved in Haslemere Hounds for giving us this wonderful opportunity for our animals to benefit from such a lovely, creative project.”

The fundraising boost comes at a critical time for the RSPCA, which has been dealing with the effects of a ‘horse-dumping crisis’ for almost seven years.

In 2018, the charity took in more than 780 horses across England and Wales, and offered advice and support to many more owners.

Those wishing to support the RSPCA in tackling horse welfare problems can make a difference by reporting welfare issues to the charity’s cruelty and advice line, or by making a donation.