At least 2,000 Egyptian equines are suffering as tourism has ground to a halt in many regions following the recent political uprisings.
Their owners are unable to earn a living to feed their animals.
Charities, including The Brooke, which has launched an urgent appeal, are calling for help.
Five Brooke teams are treating animals used for tourism in the pyramid area.
Dr Ammr Mahmoud, one of the Brooke vets, said: “We have treated and fed more than 1,000 animals so far.”
Owner Hamada Hussien, said: “This is the first time my horse has eaten properly since the start of the demonstrations. My horse was starving and not able to work. This has saved his life and my only source of living.”
Riding instructor Beth Sartain, who has lived in Cairo for five years, is also helping to fund-raise with the Egyptian Society for Mercy to Animals.
She has set up a collection point to which owners can bring their horses and 450 were fed last week.
“We gave as much feed as we considered appropriate considering the condition of the animal,” she added.
This news story was first published in the current issue of Horse & Hound (24 February, 2011)
