Two mares and their foals have been given “second chances and a lifetime of love and happiness” – as charity warns abandonment cases are a “growing concern”.
Last winter pregnant Welsh mares 15-year-old Ariel and six-year-old Jasmine were rescued by the RSPCA in separate cases. Ariel had lice and was suffering with an eye infection, and Jasmine was found in poor condition.
Ariel welcomed a filly, named Moana, and Jasmine welcomed a filly, named Belle. This summer the four were given “a new start” at HAPPA, where they will continue their rehabilitation.
“As soon as Jasmine, Belle, Ariel and Moana stepped onto Shores Hey Farm, the team embraced them with open arms,” said Amanda Berry, HAPPA’s head of equine operations.
“It is heart-warming to see horses that have not previously experienced love begin to trust the team. Now enjoying time in the paddocks, the foursome are coming to call after a day playing out in the paddocks.”
A HAPPA spokesperson added that although Ariel and Jasmine were separate cases, they both have “similar stories”.
“It’s a reminder of how horse abandonment is a growing concern and is on the rise across the UK,” he said.
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“Jasmine, Ariel, and their foals now have the chance to live the rest of their lives free from fear. Our team is taking everything at their pace to ensure they are happy, healthy and prepared for their futures.”
The ponies will be prepared for HAPPA’s fostering and rehoming scheme.
“Importantly, Jasmine and Ariel will never be bred from again. Their futures are now safe under HAPPA’s lifelong promise of care and protection. HAPPA will continue to be a safety net for abused, neglected and unwanted equines,” said the spokesperson.
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Since joining H&H in 2018, Becky has covered a broad range of equestrian news including welfare matters, veterinary studies, FEI Tribunal hearings and road safety campaigns. She has also interviewed top riders including Scott Brash, John Whitaker and Ian Stark, to name just a few. Becky’s reporting has taken her to Canada for Spruce Meadows and France for Pau five-star, as well as the Royal Highland and Blair Castle International Horse Trials closer to home. She was also a key part of the remote reporting team for the Tokyo Olympics and the Europeans.
