A 10-year-old grey pony who was found alone and isolated in a field has been rescued by Horses and Ponies Protection Association (HAPPA).
Marble was bought as a companion by her previous owner and when the other horse left, she was forgotten about. She remained in the field alone with little animal or human interaction, was unhandled and uncared for.
When she was signed over to the charity — following a tip off from a member of the public — she was found to have poor sight and sharp, uncomfortable teeth.
“When Marble arrived with us, she was very scared and unsure,” said HAPPA’s equine care supervisor Nicole Simpson.
“Everything was unfamiliar and she didn’t know who to trust. But we were patient, gave her time and space to settle into the farm.
“Eventually we were able to gain her trust.”
Marble received dental treatment and the pony is now doing well.
“Due to her pink skin, she is UV sensitive, and her unique eyes need extra protection from sunlight, therefore she must wear a UV mask whilst out in the daylight to protect her sight from further damage,” added Nicole.
“Marble now has a chance of a brighter future in our care.
“This is the beginning of Marble’s journey to recovery. With HAPPA’s care, and help from kind sponsors, she has a real chance to heal.”
Abandonment epidemic
A statement from HAPPA said that horse abandonment is on the rise and charities are facing an abandonment epidemic.
Last month, Your Horse reported on the foal born to an abandoned pony rescued by the charity who only survived due to staff tube feeding and providing round-the-clock care.
In November, HAPPA seized two Thoroughbreds that were abandoned on 200 hundred acres of farmland.
These are just two examples — rescue stories, often involving horses, ponies and donkeys in terrible condition — are frequently in the news.
HAPPA is appealing for donations to help towards Marble’s rehabilitation and supporting the many other horses in the charity’s care.
You can also sponsor a HAPPA horse for £51 per year. Find out more here.
Find out more about donating to the charity.
Image © HAPPA
