The Donkey Sanctuary led several organisations in a multi-agency response to move six mules and two ponies, who were living on an exposed hillside with very little shelter in South Wales, to safety last month.
Lluest Horse and Pony Trust in Carmarthenshire were alerted to the plight of the six unhandled mules, Shetland stallion and pony mare whose owner had died and enlisted the help of The Donkey Sanctuary in the rescue.
One of the mules had severely overgrown hooves and required urgent veterinary assessment and specialist farriery care.
A team of nine from The Donkey Sanctuary, including Donkey Welfare Advisers, a vet, lorry driver and donkey care staff, alongside staff from Lluest, The Mare and Foal Sanctuary and a vet from Redwings, worked together on the operation and used specialist handling pens from The Mare and Foal Sanctuary and World Horse Welfare.
Complex operation
“This was a complex operation in challenging conditions, but thanks to the collective teamwork, experience and compassion of several organisations, the mules and ponies will now benefit from immediate care, veterinary and behaviour support at Lluest,” said Hannah Bryer, head of welfare at The Donkey Sanctuary and a Director of NEWC (National Equine Welfare Council).
“In the longer term, The Donkey Sanctuary will continue to offer advice and support during the rehabilitation of the mules.
“This is a brilliant example of working together, sharing resources and expertise to ensure a positive outcome. Being able to call on fellow NEWC members is instrumental in allowing us to reach equines in urgent need of help.”
New home
The mules and ponies were transported to the Lluest Horse and Pony Trust where they are undergoing treatment and recovery.
“These mules and ponies were living in extremely exposed conditions at one of the harshest times of year, with no one able to meet their ongoing welfare needs. Getting them to safety while causing minimal stress was critical,” said Dionne Schuurman, equine manager at Lluest Horse and Pony Trust.
“We’re incredibly grateful to The Donkey Sanctuary and our fellow welfare partners for their professionalism, compassion, and teamwork. Thanks to this joint effort, all eight equines are now safe, sheltered, and beginning the careful process of assessment and rehabilitation.”
Images © The Donkey Sanctuary.
