Two young pregnant fillies are doing well at the Horses and Ponies Protection Association having been rescued following a difficult start in life. 

Sugar, a two-year-old skewbald filly, and Spice, a two-year-old chestnut filly, arrived at HAPPA’s Shores Hey Farm in Burnley unhandled and under veterinary sedation. Initially neither pony showed any interest in food and both were wary of human contact.

After time, patience and gentle handling, HAPPA’s Equine Care team were able to fit headcollars and full veterinary health checks were carried out. 

Pregnancy revealed

Blood tests revealed Sugar and Spice were in foal. It is believed that Sugar is over 100 days into her pregnancy while Spice is still in the early stages and will require further tests and monitoring. 

“Sugar has settled in well and is already forming a bond with the yard team. She has a sweet nature and an inquisitive personality, and with time we’re confident her trust will continue to grow,” said Nicole Simpson, equine care supervisor at HAPPA.

“Spice is much more nervous, but she is slowly coming around. We’ve begun to build trust with her in the stable, and we truly believe that, in time, she will learn to trust again.”

“It never fails to amaze me how ponies who have been through so much are still capable of loving again.

“It breaks our hearts to see frightened, broken ponies arrive at the Rescue Centre, but watching the light return to their eyes is incredibly special. We’re so excited to see what the future holds for Sugar and Spice, it really will be everything nice from now on.”

Image © HAPPA.

More from Your Horse