Introducing the latest fortunate ponies to be given a rescue space here at the Trust. Sarabi a registered Welsh Section A mare and Simba her colt foal, are both named following a Lion King theme we started with foal Nala rescued last month.
Earlier on in the year we were contacted by a desperate gentleman whose elderly father was too poorly to take care of his herd of five pregnant mares, two yearling colts and a stallion. Sadly prior to contacting us two of the ponies had died. We immediately went to see them and was very worried for a couple of very thin mares who looked ready to foal, along with a colt who was the target of constant attack from the stallion. There was also the issue of misguided locals throwing over grass clippings and vegetables to feed them. Already at capacity we set about trying to find foster homes to make space on the farm to immediately help the three most in need. However, days later the gentleman called to say, by a stroke of luck, someone had come forward and was willing to take on the whole herd with the intention of finding them suitable homes.
We have kept in touch with the new owners and have offered any support and help they may need. All mares have now foaled increasing the herd number to 13. The mares are likely to have all been covered again as they are still with the stallion. The new owners have done a great job buying in pens to enable handling of those they haven’t been able to get near. Understandably with 3 of their own horses, they were keen for any help we could give in reducing the numbers they have.Sarabi has a dental issue causing a horrible swelling on her face and discharge from her eye. We had our vet check her out and she will need to go into the clinic for further assessment and treatment. We are hoping that it can be treated without the need for an expensive specialist but this still may not be possible.
Every new rescue goes through a quarantine procedure. During this period the staff have to wear overalls and use disinfectant foot dips within the isolation area. The new resident then sees a vet, has a faecal sample tested for worm eggs, has their teeth rasped, starts their tetanus vaccinations, is treated for lice, wormed appropriately and has a blood test for strangles. That’s without any other health issues treated. All these treatments are costly. If you feel you are able to help towards our ever rising costs, please donate. There are other ways to help on our Ways to Help page.
Sarabi and Simba
