Discover an oasis for horses – Domov pro koně in Leština, Central Bohemia

This time we’re going to Leština, a village south of Prague near Votice, about 40 minutes by car from the capital. There is a Domov pro koně – an exceptional facility that provides a sanctuary for old, sick, unwanted or abused horses. This sanctuary was founded in 2010 and has since won the hearts of many animal lovers with its dedication and care for animals who often have no other hope for a better life.

First impressions when visiting the horse sanctuary

The strongest first impression was the size of the land where the horses live. According to the information available, there are 50 hectares of pasture for horses, ponies and a few cows around the family home and farm. These large pastures give the horses plenty of space to move around and graze freely, which is essential for their well-being and health. In addition to the pastures, the horses have access to 2 stables, all day access to hay, water and salt licks.

Who are the heroes of the Domov pro koně?

Patricie Pitříková and Pavel Malypetr are behind this shelter. Their dedication and love for animals is the driving force behind the whole project. Most of the work, such as the daily care of the animals, administrative matters and organising activities to support the shelter, is done by the two of them. Sometimes volunteers help them with the project. We have been able to visit this magical and peaceful place twice and help with the care of the horses, at least for a while.

It really made an impression on me to see how Patricia cares for each horse as if it were her own. Patricie and Paul emphasise that every animal has the right to live in dignity. Their philosophy is that once the horses arrive at the sanctuary, they never leave – they don’t sell or give them away. For many of them, this is the first time they have experienced a peaceful, stress-free life.

A little bit of history

Domov pro koně in Leština has a rich history that began in 2010. The founders, Patricie Pitříková and Pavel Malypetr, decided to create a sanctuary for horses that, for various reasons, could no longer serve their owners. Their vision was to give these animals a dignified place to live out their lives and to thank them for their lifelong service to mankind. Over the first few years, the sanctuary grew and improved. What was originally a small project has grown into a well-respected facility that now provides a home for 40 horses, 3 cows and other animals.

The case of the abused horses from Jankov

Home for Horses played an important role in the famous case of the abused horses of Jankov, which shocked the Czech public in 2011. It was a case of extreme neglect and abuse of horses on a farm in the village of Jankov. The sanctuary played an active role in rescuing these animals and finding them new homes. Some of these horses have found permanent homes in Leština and have been given the chance of a new and better life.

This case has not only highlighted the issue of animal cruelty, but also the importance of having facilities like the Domov pro koně to provide immediate and long-term help to animals in need.

---

What are the aims of the Domov pro koně project?

• The sanctuary focuses on rescuing horses that can no longer serve their owners and providing them with a stable and safe environment for the rest of their lives. Horses are not resold or relocated to minimise the stress associated with a change of environment.
  
• Care includes good nutrition (e.g. muesli, herbs, fruit), regular veterinary care and alternative therapies such as aromatherapy, homeopathy or gemotherapy. The aim is to improve the animals’ physical and mental health.
  
• The home for horses functions as a place where horses can enjoy a peaceful life in their natural social structure in the herd
  
• Through public events and educational activities, the shelter tries to inspire people to be more responsible towards horses and animals in general.
  

How funding works at the Domov pro koně

Domov pro koně is a non-profit organization and is funded primarily by donations from the public. You can support them in a number of ways – by making a donation to a transparent account, by purchasing products in their e-shop or by helping them manually on the spot.

Here is a link to the transparent account of the Domov pro koně. By making a regular monthly donation, I also try to ensure the running of this facility and a dignified life for these majestic creatures.

If you love compassion for animals, Domov pro koně is a place worth visiting. For more information, visit their website at Domovprokone.cz

Looking for an animal sanctuary, a farm animal sanctuary in Slovakia, the Czech Republic or Spain? Here are some tips: 

https://faunastika.com/index.php/en/experience-volunteering-in-spain-with-animals-the-aprop-dog-shelter/

https://faunastika.com/index.php/en/how-was-my-week-as-a-volunteer-at-tenerife-horse-rescue/

https://faunastika.com/index.php/en/four-dogs-to-walk-one-happy-day/

https://faunastika.com/index.php/en/from-farm-to-freedom-discover-the-jarikhanda-animal-sanctuary/

https://faunastika.com/index.php/en/discover-an-oasis-for-horses-domov-pro-kone-in-lestina-central-bohemia/