From March 22nd to 25th, 2025, the Animal Action Greece Equine Care Team traveled to Andros to provide veterinary, dental, and farriery services to the island’s equine population. The team, comprised of veterinarian Kostas Okkas, dental technician Alkis Gkeskos, and farrier Tasos Skyllas, visited 23 villages across the island, treating a total of 85 equines—43 horses, 30 donkeys, and 12 mules—as well as one cow.
Andros, the northernmost island in the Cyclades archipelago, is largely mountainous, dotted with fertile, well-watered valleys. The majority of the equines treated were working animals, used in agriculture and transportation, alongside a number of retired and rescued individuals. The team provided care for a wide range of animals, from miniature donkeys to large horses.
Engagement with local owners
A total of 51 owners received not only essential services for their animals but also on-site education. Notably, many of the owners were young, highlighting the continued reliance on equines among the younger generations of Andros.
Owners across the island were receptive to advice from the team, particularly on feeding practices and preventive healthcare. The team was heartened by the understanding many owners demonstrated regarding the importance of animal welfare and by the gratitude shown by several owners —expressed through donations, shared meals, and warm hospitality.
Animal health overview
Most of the equines examined were found to be in good condition, with no major health concerns. One case that raised concern involved an elderly mare in poor condition—dirty, anemic, never wormed, neglected. Her owner, inexperienced in equine care, was provided with detailed guidance and scheduled blood tests through the local vet to ensure follow-up.
Another memorable case involved a previously semi-wild mare who had never before allowed any handling. This year, with the aid of our experienced team and sedation, the team was able to successfully provide her with all necessary care—an important step in her wellbeing.
Farriery Services
The overall condition of hooves across the island was satisfactory. While several chronic cases of laminitis and overgrown hooves were observed, most showed significant improvement from previous years—testament to the effective dietary advice provided during past visits and faithfully followed by most of the owners.
Dental Care
As equines require annual dental maintenance, 85% of the animals examined received basic dental treatment to remove sharp edges and hooks. More complex cases were addressed as well and motorized equipment was used where required.
Notable cases
A particularly touching case involved an elderly, malnourished horse rescued by Julia, the outreach organiser. Previously in dire condition, extremely underweight and dehydrated, he had gained weight and improved his body condition under her care. His dental treatment during the outreach has already resulted in better chewing and behaviour, and further improvements are expected.
Another horse, previously unable to chew properly due to misaligned cheek teeth, received corrective treatment and immediately resumed foraging.
A standout case for our dental technician was a large mule first encountered three years ago, in the dark at the end of a long day. Back then, Alkis had to work by car headlights to reduce severe dental hooks. This year, the mule tolerated the treatment calmly, and its premolars were brought to optimal condition—an impressive transformation. His owner, comprehending now the importance of dental health, was pleased to see the team again.
A white horse, whose dangerously sharp lower cheek teeth did not only cause pain and discomfort, but had posed a serious health risk last year, was now calm and healthy. The animal accepted manual floating without sedation—clear evidence of improved welfare and trust.
Supporting local rescue
The team also revisited “Magic Mountain”, a companion animal shelter run by Sandy Britton, to provide care for the donkeys and mules that she also keeps after having rescued them.
Beyond equines
The Equine Care Programme did not include only equines this year, but also a cow! An owner —grateful for the help that his horse had received—requested also assistance for his cow suffering from long hooves, having gone through a serious infection in the past. Despite the challenging circumstances, Tasos managed to trim the hooves, providing much-needed relief to the animal.
Community Support
The outreach concluded on March 25th, Greece’s National Holiday. As in previous years, the team was invited to a traditional Greek meal by some owners, a heartwarming gesture of thanks for their efforts.
The success of this outreach would not have been possible without the invaluable support of local coordinators Julia Joyce and Petros Vasiliadis, who organized the visit, alongside vet Elisa Geskou, Animal Action Greece Programme Coordinator. Thanks also go to Vaggelis Loukissas from Film Club Andros, who captured footage during the outreach.
We express our deepest gratitude to Fast Ferries, who generously covered our team’s ferry travel costs for the fourth consecutive year. Appreciation also goes to the Municipality of Andros, to the sponsor who contributed in this action and to the local businesses who offered their contribution to this mission, including:
- Nikos Moustakas of Paradise Rooms & Apartments (accommodation)
- Restaurants: Belitsa and Almi in Batsi, Ta Souvlakia tou Gavriou and Karavostasi in Gavrio, Kossis in Ano Fellos
- Tzioti Frantzeska in Ormos Korthiou (fuel)
These contributions are a powerful testament to the community’s commitment to animal welfare. As Animal Action Greece is funded solely through individual donations, local sponsorships, support and donations from animal owners are crucial to the continuation of our annual outreach programme.
