Shetland pony seeks new home after neglected battle

A Shetland pony, once among the most critically neglected ponies, is now seeking a loving new home.

At three years old, Sherbert is described as sweet-natured and affectionate, displaying resilience and spirit despite her ordeal. 

The Sanctuary hopes to find her a home where she can continue to learn and develop in a safe and loving environment, preferably with someone experienced in caring for small ponies and able to provide companionship and enrichment.

Sherbert experienced a harrowing ordeal that shocked animal welfare advocates and a presiding judge. 

Rescued in a shocking Southwest animal welfare case, Sherbert was one of 13 equines rescued by The Mare and Foal Sanctuary in a multi-agency operation to recover animals from a centre in Par, Cornwall, in 2022. 

The conditions they were found in included severe malnourishment, conjunctivitis, lice, worm burden, overgrown hooves, plus more. 

Some bore marks from children's paintbrushes, highlighting the extent of their neglect. Sentencing the owners and yard manager, Judge Simon Carr remarked that it was one of the worst cases of animal neglect he had ever seen.

Over the following year, The Mare and Foal Sanctuary dedicated themselves to rehabilitating the 12 surviving ponies and horses.

Each received individualised care plans tailored to their specific needs, including veterinary treatment, medication, and extensive behavioural training.

Now, having fully regained her health, Sherbert resides at The Mare and Foal Sanctuary's sanctuary in Newton Abbot, Devon, thriving under their care. 

However, sanctuary staff believe Sherbert would benefit from one-to-one care with an experienced pony handler as part of the charity's 'Sanctuary at Home' loan scheme.

Syra Bowden, Head of Welfare Outreach and Advice said: “Although we will miss seeing her each day, everyone at the Sanctuary would love to see Sherbert happily settled in a special new home after her terrible ordeal.”

Despite missing her daily presence, the staff are impressed with Sherbert's progress and believe she is ready for a new chapter in her life.

The Mare and Foal Sanctuary's 'Sanctuary at Home' carers are special individuals who offer a home to horses and ponies on a loan basis, providing a rewarding experience while creating space at the sanctuary for more animals in need. 

Carers receive expert advice and support from a dedicated team and have the assurance that if circumstances change, the Sanctuary provides lifelong sanctuary for its animals.

The Mare and Foal Sanctuary welcomes inquiries from experienced equine caregivers interested in providing a loving home for Sherbert or any of its horses or ponies available for rehoming.

For more information and to inquire about rehoming Sherbert, visit the Mare and Foal Sanctuary's website at:

https://www.mareandfoal.org/our-work/lifelong-sanctuary/

https://www.mareandfoal.org/rehoming/sherbert/