Rescue mission turned Christmas miracle

Last year, HAPPA and The Donkey Sanctuary joined forces to save three donkeys and a pony, who are now thriving in their care

Following investigations last year by The Donkey Sanctuary, three ponies and a donkey were found in a terrible state. With no luck locating the owners they organised a rescue mission and sought help from HAPPA (Horses and Ponies Protection Association), a local veterinary surgeon and Lancashire Rural Police.

All four equines were found with long overgrown hooves, minimal shelter and the donkey was severely overweight. The Donkey Sanctuary specialises in donkey care, so rescued the three donkeys who are now known as Elf, Pudding and Mistletoe, and it was decided that HAPPA would take in the pony – a three-year-old black cob mare known as Merry.

HAPPA’s Equine Inspector Tracy Heaton commented: “The veterinary surgeon in attendance issued a certificate of suffering and a certificate that they were likely to suffer if left in situ. It was great to work collaboratively with another agency to ensure a brighter future for the pony and donkeys.”

Merry arrived at HAPPA’s Shores Hey Farm in Burnley where she started her rehabilitation which included vet treatments, a specialised dietary plan and had a farrier tend to her hooves to make her more comfortable. Since settling in Merry has captured the hearts of everyone at the yard and has been given all the love she deserves by the dedicated equine care team.

Speaking fondly of Merry who’s now ready to find her new home, HAPPA’s Equine Manager Rachael Wallace said: “Merry is a delight to have on the yard, she always comes along to say hello to anyone passing her stable. Merry took to her new routine almost instantly, her calm and willing nature has touched us all, especially after she had been left to her own devices for so long. I truly feel she will make a fantastic foster pony and cannot wait to match her with a perfect foster carer.”

To find out more about rehoming a pony from HAPPA, visit happa.org.uk