Military working horse Quaker begins his retirement at The Horse
Trust sanctuary in Buckinghamshire today, marking a new chapter
after dramatic footage of him bolting injured through London's
streets captured global attention.
The 15-year-old horse was one of five from the Life Guard's
Squadron that were startled by construction work during routine
exercise in April 2024. Following expert veterinary treatment and
surgery, Quaker is now returning to The Horse Trust to enjoy his
retirement.
The Horse Trust sanctuary is located in Buckinghamshire and has
cared for service horses for 139 years - accommodating 3,430
horse turnout days last year, including horses from the King's
Troop Royal Horse Artillery and The Met.
Military working animals provide an invaluable service to our
military personnel, including a long history in battle, and
continuing through key ceremonial roles. The Army has a focus on
military horse welfare, and the Horse Trust now runs a pioneering
respite scheme, where military working horses take "short breaks
and summer holidays". These breaks reflect ongoing efforts to
enhance military animal welfare, helping with both performance
and quality of life for horses.
, Minister for
Veterans and People said:
"We have a commitment to all who serve our nation, including our
much-loved service animals.
“Quaker's well-deserved retirement comes after a stellar career
in the Armed Forces and after a high-profile bolting incident,
which captured the nation's attention.
“This partnership with The Horse Trust also shows how the Army
looks after its military working horses and will improve animal
welfare.”
The Horse Trust is currently the permanent retirement home for 32
former military working horses, 26 of which have served with
HCMR.
Lieutenant Colonel Mathew Woodard, Commanding Officer of
the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment,
said:
"The partnership between the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment
and The Horse Trust is a shining example of what can be achieved
when tradition meets compassion.
“This initiative plays a crucial role in supporting long-term
physical and psychological welfare, ensuring they return to duty
refreshed and well-balanced.”
Jeanette Allen, CEO, The Horse Trust
said:
“Our charity is committed to providing respite and retirement to
horses who have served our nation and our communities and our
close relationship with HCMR is one we are extremely proud
of.”
-- ENDS --
Notes to editors:
- The Horse Trust sanctuary is located in Buckinghamshire and
has cared for service horses for 139 years. The Household Cavalry
Mounted Regiment is the most senior regiment in the British Army,
with roots dating to 1660 when King Charles II founded the Life
Guards.
- The Horse Trust has accommodated 2,136 horse turnout days
during 2025 for the HCMR. The regular respite stay has been a
week in length, some have stayed longer if needed.
- This has directly led The Horse Trust to also provide 840
horse turnout days for the Kings Troop Royal Horse Artillery and
a further 454 days for the Metropolitan Police during 2025.
