Why Rescue Animals In England Are Wearing Soccer Socks
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A herd of rescued horses and donkeys at Redwings Horse Sanctuary in Norfolk, England, just received an unexpected wardrobe upgrade. The animals are now wearing bright red team socks from Arsenal FC, one of the world's most famous soccer clubs.
The unusual donation was the brainchild of Arsenal's Operational Sustainability Manager, Michael Lloyd. After noticing dozens of pairs of worn-out socks collected during the season, Lloyd wondered if they could be put to good use. He contacted Redwings and asked if the sanctuary could use the players' old socks. The answer was an enthusiastic "yes!"
As it turns out, used soccer socks are extremely useful for horses and donkeys. Many professional soccer players cut the feet off their team socks so they can wear special grip socks inside their cleats. This leaves behind stretchy, open-ended sleeves.
At the sanctuary, caretakers slide the donated sleeves over the animals' legs. They help protect the animals from biting flies and keep medical bandages firmly in place. The sleeves also hold back leg hair during hoof trims. The stretchy material makes them easy to put on while allowing the animals to move comfortably.
The socks are not just for work — they are for play, too! Redwings staff often put treats like bananas and ginger biscuits inside the sleeves. This turns them into fun toys for the animals to explore.
"This was one of the more unusual donations we've been offered here at Redwings," laughed Nicola Knight, Redwings' Head of Communications. "They're a game changer!"
Redwings is the United Kingdom's largest horse welfare charity. The non-profit began in 1984 after rescuing a pony named Sheba. Today, it cares for more than 1,500 horses, ponies, donkeys, and mules.
Resources: washingtonpost.com, redwings.org.uk, nicenews.com, goodnewsnetwork.org
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4 Comments
crazychristine1 dayThis is really cool
ilovehenrydsaf13 daysweird but cool first comment
thejackguy3 daysOooooh so latest technology made donkeys play soccer!(Its ajoke that sounds goofy)
winter_lover_123 daysi love horses and donkeys?!!