A tiny foal who was found abandoned at the age of just two weeks has blossomed into a happy, healthy youngster and is ready for a new home.
Noodles, a dinky cob, required round the clock care from the World Horse Welfare team at Hall Farm Rescue and Rehoming Centre after he was found orphaned in July 2024.
Vets at the charity believe he did not receive enough colostrum (the milk produced by a mare which is rich in antibodies and nutrients) when he was born which left him susceptible to infections and illness.
‘So tiny’
“Noodles was so tiny when he first arrived,” said yard supervisor, Viki.
“It’s unbelievable that someone could abandon him without his mother at such a young age, but we were determined to nurse him back to health.
“Orphaned foals need a lot of intensive care and Noodles was reluctant to feed at first, so he needed attention 24/7 for weeks.”
Round the clock care
The team worked day and night giving Noodles bucket feeds and monitoring his progress to ensure he had the best possible chance of survival.
“His character really came out once he started to feel better,” adds his groom, Leah.
“Noodles has grown into an inquisitive, playful little pony, which is great to see after his sorry start in life.”
Best friend
When Noodles was strong enough to go out with the other ponies, he stuck up a strong bond with fellow youngster, Tintin, who was found abandoned with two empty food cans wedged over his hoof.
Acting like an older brother, Tintin guided Noodles through the early stages of learning how to interact and socialise with other ponies, something he didn’t know how to do as he didn’t have a mother to teach him.
Tintin has now been rehomed and it is hoped that Noodles will also soon find a forever home.
“Noodles is currently 11.3hh so he is the perfect pal for another small youngster and is looking for a home where he can continue his education,” said Leah.
“He’s a quick learner and enjoys being with people – he’ll come straight over to see you in the field. I’d love to see him find another best friend like Tintin in his new home.”
For more information or to regime Noodles, click here.
Images © World Horse Welfare.
