Rescued Horse Appreciation Month: Peanut, Popcorn and Pascal

This June, we’re continuing our celebration of Rescued Horse Appreciation Month, shining a light on the incredible journeys of horses, ponies, donkeys and mules who have been given a second chance through rehoming. 

Behind every rescued animal is a story of resilience, trust and transformation – and a future full of potential. 

With more than 2,300 horses, ponies, donkeys and mules thriving in homes through our rehoming scheme, each story highlights the powerful difference a loving home can make. 

In this instalment, we meet Peanut, Popcorn and Pascal. They were all rehabilitated at Belwade Farm and their journeys show just how life-changing rehoming can be.

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Double the joy: Peanut and Popcorn find their forever home 

The delightful donkey duo Peanut and Popcorn were born at Belwade Farm after their heavily pregnant mothers were rescued. From day one, the team ensured they received everything they needed to thrive – from expert veterinary care and remedial farriery to physiotherapy, training and, of course, plenty of affection. 

Donkeys naturally form strong bonds, and this pair – who were born just 10 weeks apart – were inseparable and looking for a home together.  

A new home with new friends 

In time for Christmas, they found their perfect match with Carol, who already had two older donkeys, Duffy and Henrietta. 

“Peanut and Popcorn have fitted right in and they’re such characters – they’re very funny,” Carol says. “They’ve really livened Duffy and Henrietta up and it’s lovely to see them all zooming round the field together.” 

Carol has always loved donkeys but began her rehoming journey only recently. When she saw Peanut and Popcorn were looking for a home, she carefully considered whether they would be the right fit. With her older donkeys able to guide the younger pair, the match proved ideal. 

“They’re a highly bonded pair and just super playful. They’re so much fun, really good-natured and they make everybody smile. They’re very inquisitive and always up to tricks.”

Bringing joy to everyday life 

Beyond their playful antics – digging holes and investigating everything in sight – the pair have brought real joy to daily life. 

“They just brighten up each day. They make it even more fun than it already was. They’re young, so playful and they just love attention.” 

The privilege of rehoming 

For Carol, rehoming is something she feels deeply passionate about. 

“I’m passionate about the fact that there are so many unwanted and neglected animals. They don’t get the choice of who takes them into their life, and I think it’s a privilege to have any animal. You should look after them to the best of your ability and just give them a loving home.”

She also highlights the wider impact. “By rehoming, you’re freeing up space for World Horse Welfare to take in other neglected, abandoned or abused horses and donkeys. From the moment I got in touch, the team were so helpful. The grooms had really done a fantastic job with both of them. 

“It’s a fantastic thing for anybody to do, to give animals a good home and I’d absolutely recommend it to anyone.” 

With a home for life guaranteed, Peanut and Popcorn are set for many happy years ahead. 

“They’re so sweet, they deserve it – they’re super donkeys.” 

Pascal’s journey: from rescue to family pony 

Pascal was one of 23 cobs rescued as part of a prosecution case – arriving in poor condition but with plenty of potential. After rehabilitation, he was rehomed last December and is now thriving in his new home. 

His rehomer, Sheila, is a lifelong horse lover and long-time supporter of our charity. She had been looking for a pony suited to a family with children so when Pascal was ready for rehoming, Sheila felt like it was meant to be. 

Now settled in, Pascal has embraced his role as a lead rein and children’s riding pony. 

“He’s already had several riders,” says Sheila. “He’s done hacking, schooling and lead rein for my great nieces and nephews – and he’s never put a foot wrong. He’s super.” 

Though still learning, Pascal’s calm and willing nature shines through every day. 

“Sometimes he’s a little hesitant, but he’s always happy to have a rider on him – he’s just a cheeky, lovable little pony.” 

How rescued horses become trusted family companions 

He has also settled in seamlessly with his new companions – two larger horses. 

“He’s super settled with my other two because he just looks out for himself and he’s quite confident. They’ve just accepted him. So everything seems to be working out really well.” 

Pascal has made an impression far beyond the yard. “Having Pascal has made me busy. It’s been good because there’s lots of young folk coming in to see him. And he’s a companion to everybody – none of the horses ever get left on their own now.”

The impact of rehoming 

For Sheila, the experience has been incredibly rewarding. 

“I’m just proud of how he’s settled. He’s very straightforward and just so cute. Everybody loves him.” 

Pascal has quickly made himself at home, proving just how adaptable and rewarding rescued horses can be. 

Reflecting on the benefits of rehoming, Sheila says: “It’s just so rewarding because there are so many ponies and horses that are looking for homes, and there’s always people looking for horses. It’s just such a worthwhile thing to do because you give them a second chance.” 

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Why giving a rescued horse a home matters 

Stories like Peanut and Popcorn’s, and Pascal’s, highlight the life-changing impact of rehoming – not just for the animals, but for the people who welcome them into their lives. 

By offering a home to a rescued horse, pony, donkey or mule, you are helping create space for another animal in need – giving them the chance of care, recovery and a brighter future. 

Could you offer a horse or pony a loving home? 

If you have enjoyed reading these stories of second chances and would like to hear more, you can catch up with Tess and Kite who were rehabilitated at our Glenda Spooner Farm in Somerset and Bert, Slinky and Babybel who were rehomed from Penny Farm in Lancashire.