Redwings Horse Sanctuary has taken in 10 horses, including a mare who was one of the thinnest the team had seen, after their owner was prosecuted for animal welfare offences.
Four thoroughbreds came into Redwings’ care in March last year. The mares, including the emaciated horse, were the subject of an RSPCA court case.
The charity took in a further six last month (February) after the defendant was ordered to rehome them as part of his sentence. The man, from Suffolk, was given a suspended prison term and banned from keeping animals for life.
“Harmonia [pictured top, at intake to Redwings] appeared to be in the worst condition,” explained Chloe Jefferd, one of Redwings’ welfare vets overseeing their care.
“She was severely emaciated and very weak as a result. She was one of the thinnest horses our staff had ever seen and very poorly.
“Severe worm damage meant she needed a plasma transfusion and intensive care.
“The other three were all in foal and in very poor condition.
“Very sadly we lost Solo to severe parasitic worm disease shortly after her arrival.
“Calypso was a wonderful mum but after a tumultuous weekend of round-the-clock care, her foal, who was born with several health issues, tragically died.
“Happily, Electra gave birth to a healthy colt, Echo, who is doing well so far.”
It took five months of specialist care before the mares and foal were ready to leave the charity’s quarantine centre.
Now, one year on, Harmonia and the other thoroughbreds are settled into sanctuary life and working with Redwings’ behaviour team who are preparing them for their futures, whether that be inside or outside of sanctuary care.
A stallion, mare, her filly foal, a two-year-old colt, a three-year-old colt and a gelding from the same location are now also in Redwings’ care.
“Sadly, the stallion also needed a plasma transfusion because of his parasitic worm burden,” said Chloe. “All have needed treatment for worms and the stallion and colts will need castrating.
“Whilst this is what we’re here to do, it’s becoming more and more difficult.
“Times are very tough and we need our supporters’ help more than ever to continue to be ready to rescue horses, ponies, donkeys and mules like these, when they need us most.”
Those wishing to support Redwings, so the charity can be Ready to Rescue for cases like this, can visit the charity’s website.
