World Horse Welfare’s Somerset rescue and rehoming centre has welcomed its first foal of the year, born to a rescued mare who was taken in as part of a large welfare case.
Poppy, a chestnut filly, has been born without complications at the charity’s Glenda Spooner Farm. Her dam, Parsley, arrived at the centre in October with lice, worms, and a profound fear of humans, but the charity said she has demonstrated “remarkable resilience and embraced her role as a mother”.
Assistant farm manager Sara Jerman said: “Watching any foal is heartwarming, and Poppy is already showing her playful spirit.
“She has delighted in running around in the mud — a current challenge for us here and for many horse owners after this wet winter — and enjoying her rests after the tiring activities of being a young foal.”
The charity rescues around 300 horses each year and its long-running “do you need to breed?” campaign highlights the possible consequences of excessive breeding and encourages responsible ownership.
A spokesman for the charity said Poppy’s arrival is “a beacon of hope and symbolises a promising future for horses that have faced neglect or abuse” and “just one example of World Horse Welfare’s commitment to providing a better future for all horses”.
She added: “By choosing to rehome rather than breed, horse lovers can help ensure that every horse has the chance of a safe and loving home.”
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