It was 1992 when UK-based veterinarian Janet Eley travelled alone to Greece. What she saw stayed with her: donkeys, horses, and mules that formed the backbone of island life, yet many suffered in silence from painful dental problems, overgrown hooves, and untreated wounds. The issue wasn’t neglect, but a lack of training, equipment, and access to veterinary care.
Janet knew something had to change.
In response, she launched the Greek Animal Welfare Fund (GAWF) Equine Project, driven by a bold and transformative vision: for the people of Greece to take full responsibility for the care of the country’s working equines. Her ultimate goal was for the project to become fully embedded within Greek society, led not by foreign professionals, but by a skilled and self-sustaining Greek team.
Today, that vision has been realised.
Now, we continue to work towards our broader vision: for Greece to become a nation whose people care deeply about the quality of animals’ lives. As the longest-serving animal charity operating nationally in Greece, we are proud of what we have achieved over the years. Our work has improved the lives of countless animals. But our mission is far from over.
That’s why we remain committed to using the way we care for animals to educate and inspire, encouraging changes in attitudes at every level of Greek society.
Building Foundations: The Role of UK Professionals
In the early days of the outreach programme, farriers from Uppington Smithy in Shropshire were instrumental in shaping its success. They not only offered hands-on support during outreach visits but also led seminars, mentoring aspiring Greek farriers and improving their skills dramatically.
John and Tommy Preece, Michael Keirnan, and J.R. Fairgrieve formed the backbone of these early outreach efforts. Their consistent dedication and expertise provided vital continuity and quality in equine care. Later, newly qualified farriers Dominic Moss and Alex Hall brought fresh energy to the team, generously volunteering their time during later visits and even hosting a fundraiser on Dominic’s family farm, complete with an auction, raising essential funds to keep the project going.
Expertise That Endures: Garry Draper’s Legacy
Among the most influential figures in the early team was equine dentist Garry Draper, one of the founding members of the outreach programme. Garry was more than a skilled practitioner; he was an innovator, an educator, and a true advocate for the animals.
Through his dental college in the UK and visits to Greece, Garry trained both vets and aspiring equine dental technicians, generously sharing his time, knowledge, and equipment. He played a pivotal role in inspiring the next generation, including our veterinarian Elisa and dental technician Alkis, two of the charity’s current specialists, who credit Garry with sparking their interest in advanced equine dentistry.
Local Support: A Critical Piece of the Puzzle
None of this progress would have been possible without the support of locally based charities and individuals who dedicated their time and resources to the cause. Special recognition must go to Carol McBeth, a veterinary nurse employed by GAWF (now Animal Action Greece), who managed the Athens office and was deeply involved in all aspects of the charity’s work.
Carol helped coordinate Janet’s very first equine visits to Santorini and Zakynthos and played a key role in organising school education programmes, animal welfare competitions, and neutering campaigns. She also invited Janet to lecture at Athens riding clubs, helping fill a crucial knowledge gap among horse owners at the time.
A Lasting Impact
This collaborative effort between UK and Greek professionals laid the groundwork for sustainable, locally driven change. Today, the knowledge and skills shared by the early outreach teams continue to influence equine care across the country. Greek professionals now lead the charge, empowered by years of guidance, training, and mutual respect.
The Equine Project stands as a testament to what can be achieved when dedication, expertise, and compassion come together. While much has been accomplished, our work continues, because every equine life matters, and because the path to long-term change is paved with education, empowerment, and care.
