The proprietor of a beloved equine sanctuary nestled in the scenic Perthshire countryside is embarking on a challenging six-month recovery journey after sustaining a serious back injury in what has been described as a ‘freak accident’. Karen Inkster, who manages Equine Unlimited near the historic town of Dunkeld, suffered a fractured bone in her back and a torn hip muscle following a fall from a horse approximately six weeks ago.
This unfortunate incident has rendered Ms. Inkster, 50, unable to carry out her essential duties caring for the 14 animals housed at the sanctuary. The extensive recuperation period means a significant disruption to the daily operations of Equine Unlimited, which provides a safe haven for horses, donkeys, and mules, some of whom have been rescued from challenging circumstances. Community Rallies to Support Vital Work
In response to Ms. Inkster’s predicament, a compassionate friend, Maggie Aitchison, has initiated a fundraising campaign to provide much-needed financial assistance for the sanctuary during this difficult period. The outpouring of local support has already seen over £2,000 raised, highlighting the strong community spirit prevalent throughout Perth and Kinross.
Reflecting on the incident, Ms. Inkster recounted that the fall occurred while she was riding one of her young horses. The animal unexpectedly stepped on a large branch, which split and brushed against its sensitive underside. This startling sensation caused the horse to leap sideways, unseating Ms. Inkster. She has no memory of the fall itself, having been knocked unconscious, but her friend, who was riding behind her, witnessed the unexpected chain of events.
The remote location of the accident on a hill compounded the challenges, requiring paramedics two hours to stabilise and transport Ms. Inkster to an ambulance. Initially, doctors anticipated an eight-week recovery period. However, persistent and severe pain, coupled with a loss of function in her left leg, led to further investigations. Subsequent scans at Ninewells Hospital revealed the torn hip muscle, extending her expected recovery to six months. Impact on Daily Life and Sanctuary Operations
The severity of her injuries means Ms. Inkster is strictly advised against twisting, lifting, bending, and, crucially, riding. These restrictions represent a significant hurdle for someone who lives independently and whose life and livelihood are intrinsically linked to the physical demands of caring for equines. ‘Everything you do with horses is bending and lifting, so it’s quite a significant impact when you live by yourself to have something like that happen,’ she explained.
In the interim, Ms. Inkster’s 76-year-old mother has moved in to provide support, and friends from the local community and wider Perthshire area have generously stepped forward to assist with the daily care of the sanctuary’s residents. Equine Unlimited, established in 2020, is dedicated to promoting progressive equine practices, including bitless and barefoot riding, and positive reinforcement training. It currently cares for five donkeys, one mule, and eight horses.
Ms. Inkster expressed immense gratitude for the kindness shown, stating she is ‘blessed’ to have such a supportive network. The financial strain of being unable to offer riding lessons or livery services is substantial for the self-funded sanctuary. ‘Financially, it’s just been a huge, huge hit. I’d hate the horses to have to suffer, so any help is appreciated,’ she conveyed.
Maggie Aitchison, a 43-year-old vet from near Stirling, initiated the GoFundMe campaign, stating her heart “bled for Karen” upon hearing the news. She recognised the dual burden of physical pain and the immense worry of maintaining the sanctuary through the upcoming winter months. Ms. Aitchison’s goal was simple: to offer whatever help she could, even if it was just enough for a bale of hay, and to support the valuable work Equine Unlimited undertakes for animal welfare in the Perthshire region. The success of the fundraiser so far is a testament to the compassion within the community.
This unfortunate incident has rendered Ms. Inkster, 50, unable to carry out her essential duties caring for the 14 animals housed at the sanctuary. The extensive recuperation period means a significant disruption to the daily operations of Equine Unlimited, which provides a safe haven for horses, donkeys, and mules, some of whom have been rescued from challenging circumstances. Community Rallies to Support Vital Work
In response to Ms. Inkster’s predicament, a compassionate friend, Maggie Aitchison, has initiated a fundraising campaign to provide much-needed financial assistance for the sanctuary during this difficult period. The outpouring of local support has already seen over £2,000 raised, highlighting the strong community spirit prevalent throughout Perth and Kinross.
Reflecting on the incident, Ms. Inkster recounted that the fall occurred while she was riding one of her young horses. The animal unexpectedly stepped on a large branch, which split and brushed against its sensitive underside. This startling sensation caused the horse to leap sideways, unseating Ms. Inkster. She has no memory of the fall itself, having been knocked unconscious, but her friend, who was riding behind her, witnessed the unexpected chain of events.
The remote location of the accident on a hill compounded the challenges, requiring paramedics two hours to stabilise and transport Ms. Inkster to an ambulance. Initially, doctors anticipated an eight-week recovery period. However, persistent and severe pain, coupled with a loss of function in her left leg, led to further investigations. Subsequent scans at Ninewells Hospital revealed the torn hip muscle, extending her expected recovery to six months. Impact on Daily Life and Sanctuary Operations
The severity of her injuries means Ms. Inkster is strictly advised against twisting, lifting, bending, and, crucially, riding. These restrictions represent a significant hurdle for someone who lives independently and whose life and livelihood are intrinsically linked to the physical demands of caring for equines. ‘Everything you do with horses is bending and lifting, so it’s quite a significant impact when you live by yourself to have something like that happen,’ she explained.
In the interim, Ms. Inkster’s 76-year-old mother has moved in to provide support, and friends from the local community and wider Perthshire area have generously stepped forward to assist with the daily care of the sanctuary’s residents. Equine Unlimited, established in 2020, is dedicated to promoting progressive equine practices, including bitless and barefoot riding, and positive reinforcement training. It currently cares for five donkeys, one mule, and eight horses.
Ms. Inkster expressed immense gratitude for the kindness shown, stating she is ‘blessed’ to have such a supportive network. The financial strain of being unable to offer riding lessons or livery services is substantial for the self-funded sanctuary. ‘Financially, it’s just been a huge, huge hit. I’d hate the horses to have to suffer, so any help is appreciated,’ she conveyed.
Maggie Aitchison, a 43-year-old vet from near Stirling, initiated the GoFundMe campaign, stating her heart “bled for Karen” upon hearing the news. She recognised the dual burden of physical pain and the immense worry of maintaining the sanctuary through the upcoming winter months. Ms. Aitchison’s goal was simple: to offer whatever help she could, even if it was just enough for a bale of hay, and to support the valuable work Equine Unlimited undertakes for animal welfare in the Perthshire region. The success of the fundraiser so far is a testament to the compassion within the community.