Stichting De Paardenkamp is the first national retirement home for horses in the Netherlands. It was founded in 1962 by Mr ‘t Hart, who was upset that horses were often sent for slaughter after a lifetime of hard work. Since then, De Paardenkamp has grown into a fully-fledged retirement home at which 120 retired horses and ponies can now live out their days. There are three locations:
- Vosseveld Farm, Birkstraat 96 in Soest (a location with about 50 horses and ponies; open for free visits 7 days a week between 10am and 4pm).
- Het Gagelgat Farm, Birkstraat 107 in Soest (a historic farm housing about 8 ponies and surrounded by meadows; open for free visits 7 days a week between 10am and 4pm).
- De Birkhoeve Farm (home in the winter to about 40 horses in a Paddock Paradise; this location is only open to the public during events).
We have gained an enormous amount of experience and knowledge of how to care for older horses over the years and actively share this knowledge so that as many older horses and ponies can benefit from it as possible. Anyone with a question about caring for horses is more than welcome to call us. Although we are not vets, we can provide advice based on our many years of experience and knowledge.
Throughout the year we organise many events. Twice a year we hold an open day with all kinds of tours and demonstrations and at which we introduce our new residents. There is also an annual Older Horses Day, on which we focus on sharing knowledge and frequently work together with Utrecht University and Wellensiek veterinary practice.
De Paardenkamp is only able to survive thanks to the donations and gifts of our donors. You can become a donor from just 2.50 euros a month. In return, you will receive a newsletter several times a year, as well as discounts and other benefits at events.