Transforming Lives: The ‘Give A Cob A Job’ Movement
There’s something truly special happening in the world of traditional gypsy cobs. The Traditional Gypsy Cob Association (TGCA) has launched an inspiring initiative called “Give A Cob A Job”—a program designed to rescue neglected cobs, rehabilitate them, and give them meaningful work at an equine therapy center. But this isn’t just about the horses; it’s about creating a positive ripple effect that encourages responsible breeding practices and gives struggling individuals a path to healing.
A New Hope for Abandoned Cobs
The TGCA’s charitable arm, Cob Care, is opening an equine therapy center near Canterbury—expected to welcome its first residents in September 2019. This groundbreaking facility will serve a dual purpose: rescuing cobs in desperate need of care and providing therapeutic benefits to individuals struggling with mental health challenges and learning difficulties.
Andrea Betteridge, the founding director of the TGCA, explains the vision: “By giving more traditional gypsy cobs a job, we’re not just saving individual animals. We’re actively encouraging better breeding choices that elevate the value and market demand for responsibly-bred cobs. It’s a win-win for both the breed and the community.”
Colin’s Journey: From Abandoned to Advocate
Meet Colin, the first cob to be rescued by Cob Care. This two-year-old gentle soul was found abandoned and alone in a field, his situation heartbreaking but not hopeless. When Andrea and her team discovered him, Colin was severely malnourished, lice-infested, and struggling with parasitic infections. But beneath the neglect was a spirit waiting to shine.
“When we found Colin, he was skinny and frail, covered in lice and riddled with tapeworms,” Andrea recalls. “I’ve been working with him every single day. He’s had to overcome so much—the relentless itching that thankfully has now passed, and his deep-rooted fear of people approaching with a headcollar.”
What’s remarkable is Colin’s resilience. Despite his traumatic past, he’s slowly learning to trust again. “He’s always been the gentlest soul,” Andrea says fondly. Colin’s recovery will be documented and shared through his own blog, allowing supporters to follow his remarkable transformation step by step.
Creating Opportunities Through Competition and Community
The TGCA has a proven track record of creating meaningful opportunities for cobs and their owners. Through prestigious events like their Championship Show and the celebrated Traditional of the Year Show—now in its impressive 10th year—the association continues to shine a spotlight on these remarkable horses.
These shows aren’t just competitions; they’re celebrations of the breed’s heritage and opportunities for owners to showcase their cobs’ talents and beauty. By elevating the status of gypsy cobs in the equestrian world, the TGCA is creating genuine market value for quality animals and incentivizing responsible breeding practices.
A Movement with Purpose
What makes “Give A Cob A Job” truly special is its multi-layered impact. It’s not just a rescue initiative—it’s a compassionate response to animal welfare, a breeding reform movement, and a therapeutic program for vulnerable people. Every cob rescued, rehabilitated, and given meaningful work becomes a testament to the breed’s value and a beacon of hope for both equine and human communities.
For gypsy cob enthusiasts and welfare advocates alike, this initiative represents the future of responsible breeding and ethical horse ownership. It’s a reminder that when we invest in our horses, we’re investing in ourselves and our communities.
Follow Colin’s journey and learn more about how you can support the Traditional Gypsy Cob Association and Cob Care’s vital work in protecting and promoting this cherished breed.