Two horses have been taken from entirely different but equally tragic circumstances and taken in by an equine charity.

The Horses and Ponies Protection Association (HAPPA) were called upon to take in Romeo after his owner sadly passed away and Juliet after she was found running loose in poor condition with an infected eye.

Romeo was recovering from surgery for kissing spine when his owner passed away from a terminal illness. His deceased owner’s family, who didn’t have equestrian experience, were left to care for him and contacted HAPPA for help. Due to his ongoing recovery, putting him up for sale wouldn’t have been in his best interests.

The gelding will complete his rehabilitation and recuperation at HAPPA’s Burnley base. Once that has been completed, staff at HAPPA will decide what is best for his future and whether he can be rehomed. 

‘Bespoke rehabilitation plan’

“Romeo will be given the best chance of recovery and a bespoke rehabilitation plan under veterinary advice,” said Rachel Smith, HAPPA’s equine manager.

“We will carry on his late owner’s great work diagnosing and treating kissing spines. 

“With a sweet and kind temperament Romeo had begun napping and bucking whilst being ridden, this was out of character for him. 

“After veterinary investigations mild kissing spines was diagnosed, his previous owner then funded the operation. 

“This worked well but when Romeo needed his owner the most she was diagnosed with a terminal illness and could no longer give him the care he needed, we stepped in and safeguarded Romeo’s future.”

Juliet’s story

In stark contrast to Romeo’s story, Juliet had not been looked after well by her previous owner, who could not be located when the rescue took place.

HAPPA received a report of a coloured mare with an infected eye being tethered on a tight rope. When the charity’s equine inspectors investigated they found Juliet distressed and running loose with another pony having forced herself free from the tether.

The charity used the Control of Horses Act to move Juliet to safety and admit her for urgent veterinary treatment. Antibiotics and pain killers ensured her eye is now stable in its socket and will not require surgery, but sadly it was too late to save her vision.

Indescribable suffering

“It is unimaginable the trauma that Juliet has been through at just three years old,” continued Rachel. 

“No one has the right to treat an animal in this way. Her sight in one eye has been lost due to neglect and lack of treatment, the lasting effects of what has happened to her is evident, she is extremely head shy. 

“The equine care team will work to build her confidence and help her through the journey of recovery from the trauma.”

HAPPA will fund all the costs related to Romeo and Juliet’s full recovery which is estimated to be over £2,000.

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