OUR STORY
Friends of Horses Foundation Establishment and Mission
Friends of Horses Foundation was established with the aim of uniting horse enthusiasts and raising awareness among institutions and the public to protect horses at risk of extinction. Chaotic conditions in state structures responsible for managing enterprises that mistreated horses, massive abuses, and lack of accountability paved the way for horse theft, contraband sales in neighboring countries, and the abandonment of horses treated hostilely as former state property.
This situation prompted quick action to prevent a significant loss. With the decision No. 85 dated 25.04.2003 of the Tirana Court, the foundation was officially established.
Its branches expanded to Shkoder, Divjake, Vlore, Durres, Korce, Elbasan, and Pogradec. Collective efforts rescued valuable Arab bloodline horses like Soni, Lori, Emirjoti, Baresha, Note, Nerjeta (originating from the former Shkoder zootechnical station), and the increase in the number of young horses.
Friends of Horses Foundation Establishment and Mission
Friends of Horses Foundation was established with the aim of uniting horse enthusiasts and raising awareness among institutions and the public to protect horses at risk of extinction.
Chaotic conditions in state structures responsible for managing enterprises that mistreated horses, massive abuses, and lack of accountability paved the way for horse theft, contraband sales in neighboring countries, and the abandonment of horses treated hostilely as former state property.
This situation prompted quick action to prevent a significant loss. With the decision No. 85 dated 25.04.2003 of the Tirana Court, the foundation was officially established.
Its branches expanded to Shkoder, Divjake, Vlore, Durres, Korce, Elbasan, and Pogradec. Collective efforts rescued valuable Arab bloodline horses like Soni, Lori, Emirjoti, Baresha, Note, Nerjeta (originating from the former Shkoder zootechnical station), and the increase in the number of young horses.
Challenges and Limited Legal Protection
Despite the Foundation’s support after 1999, financial difficulties, inadequate medical treatment, and substandard stables pose ongoing challenges for the normal and long-term well-being of Arab thoroughbred horses.
The lack of legal protection approved by the decision of the council of ministers since 2005, as initiated by the Ministry of Agriculture, and the absence of minimum conditions for shelter jeopardize the foundation’s horses.
Nowadays
Financial constraints, inadequate medical treatment, and substandard stables are the main factors threatening the normal and guaranteed long-term support of Arab thoroughbred horses, part of Albania’s heritage, still alive today thanks to the efforts made by Friends of Horses Foundation that operates head to head with our riding school.
Volunteering
Volunteer with Friends of Horses!
By becoming a volunteer at Friends of Horses, you’ll play a vital role in supporting our mission and provide enriching experiences for horse enthusiasts of all ages.
Whether you’re a student looking to gain valuable hands-on experience, an equine lover eager to share your passion, or simply someone who wants to give back to the community, there’s a place for you here.