A former drug addict from Atlantis has turned his life around and is now saving young laaities at risk in the town with the help of horses.
Joshua Swarts, 40, from Avondale, was a tikkop for over 10 years and when he cleaned up his act, he founded Horse Pals Atlantis in August last year.
“I love animals and started Horse Pals to give children a sense of responsibility and love for horses and other animals,” says Joshua.
“At the moment I have 20 children from all ages on board and they are being kept busy every day so they do not have time to think about getting involved with drugs, alcohol or gangsterism.”
The team helps heal sick or injured perde in the Atlantis area and the kids are taught how to check for vital signs, how to wash and feed the horses and also give emotional support to the animals.
Boy feeding one of the horses. Picture supplied
“We’re also running a rehabilitation programme where we take in injured horses,” says Joshua.
“We take the horse to a secluded place where we treat them, give them therapy and wash and care for them as if they’re our own.
“Once the horse is healed, we return them to their owner.
“What is most rewarding is not just the horse that is better, but the look on the children’s faces as they see that horse transformed and know it is because of their assistance and the journey they walked with the horse.”
THE MANE MAN: Horse Pals Atlantis founder Joshua Swarts has a new mission. Picture supplied
Eleven-year-old Ashwill says Horse Pals has changed his life.
“I am a member for five months now. I don’t smoke dagga or do drugs anymore, I realised I needed to get myself out of that life,” Ashwill says shyly.
“I enjoy Horse Pals, it’s not only a safe place but I get taught to treat animals and not abuse animals.”
Renaldo, 15, adds: “We also go to many other places and I learn a lot about animals. Everything I learn I can use in my life.”
