Super Cobs!

Traditional cobs are growing in popularity as versatile, sensible riding horses, yet on the flip side the type is suffering at the worst end of the horse crisis. Jo Browne reports...

- Jo Browne

The hairy cob has undergone a renaissance in recent years as the horse world has realised the talents it has to offer.

They can be seen wowing the judges in showing classes, turning a hoof to riding club activities, safely carrying youngsters at Pony Club rallies and holding their own in affiliated dressage tests.

Indeed, the talent shown between the white boards has resulted in Traditional Gypsy Cobs being given their own dressage championships that are affiliated to British Dressage (BD).

Yet while more people are enjoying owning, loaning and sharing Gypsy Cobs, this type of horse and pony is still suffering at the very worst end of the horse crisis.

Welfare charities are called out on a daily basis to deal with heartbreaking cases, and from the press releases Horse magazine receives, many of these involve coloured, hairy cobs – emaciated colts thrown into ditches, mares in labour dumped to die on a roadside or horses abandoned with horrific wounds.

Charities are full to bursting point. They work tirelessly to educate people about responsible breeding in a bid to stem the numbers of unwanted equines, and to find loving homes for the horses and ponies that come through their doors.

So, let’s celebrate the beauty and versatility of the Traditional Gypsy Cob, but consider what still needs to be done to help the hundreds of horses suffering from, or at risk of, neglect.

Breed recognition

With its flowing mane, abundant feather and ample bone, the Traditional Gypsy Cob has fans the world over.