Not long ago, horses and donkeys on Faial were essential working animals and were generally well cared for because their role in daily life was clear.

Today many equines are no longer used for farm work. Some live well cared for lives, but others are left tethered for long periods, without proper food, water, shelter, or companionship.

There are roughly 250 equines living on Faial, many in very different conditions.

For herd animals like horses, isolation and neglect can lead to fear, illness, and injury.

Ninovan provides a safe place for horses who can no longer remain where they are.

Some rescues arrive malnourished or injured. Others simply come from situations where they were no longer wanted or properly cared for.

At Ninovan they receive:

proper nutrition

hoof care

veterinary attention when available

companionship within a herd

time and patience to recover

Every horse has a story, and every rescue represents a second chance.

Rescue alone will never solve the problem.

Lasting change happens when people understand horses — their needs, their behaviour, and their role as sensitive herd animals.

At Ninovan we work with:

local schools

volunteers

visitors from the island and abroad

Children and adults alike can meet the horses, learn how to approach them safely, and understand what responsible care looks like.

Sometimes the most powerful moment is simple:

when someone touches the scars of a rescued horse and hears their story.

Those moments create empathy — and empathy leads to change.

Over the years Ninovan has also become a point of contact when people encounter horses in difficult situations.

We often help guide residents and visitors on how to report neglect and connect them with the appropriate authorities.

In many cases, simply raising awareness and starting a conversation with owners can improve a horse’s life.

Horses were once essential partners in daily life on Faial. Today many live quietly on the island’s fields — some well cared for, others forgotten.

Horses are intelligent, social animals. When they live in our care, they depend on people who understand their needs and treat them with respect.

As herd animals, horses also rely on companionship and a stable environment to feel safe.

By rescuing those who need help and educating the community around them, Ninovan hopes to create a future where every horse on Faial is treated with respect and compassion.

Because real change begins with awareness through education.