International dressage rider Gemma Owen highlights value of rehoming

International dressage rider and World Horse Welfare Patron Gemma Owen is urging horse lovers to consider rehoming a rescue pony after giving a home to Bert, a palomino Shetland rescued from a severe neglect case. Gemma is sharing Bert’s story as part of our first-ever Rescued Horse Appreciation Month, which runs throughout June and celebrates the life-changing impact that rehomed horses and ponies can have on both people and other equines.

When Gemma visited our Penny Farm Rescue and Rehoming Centre, near Blackpool, in 2024, she didn’t realise that she would be adding to her herd. But when she set eyes on Bert, a yearling palomino Shetland, it was love at first sight. Two years later and the tiny pony is now a firm favourite with horses and humans alike in his new home.

Reflecting on her decision to rehome a rescue pony, Gemma says:

“I think it’s really important for people to take on horses and ponies as companions – Bert has just fitted in perfectly here. There are so many amazing horses who’ve had really tough stories who deserve a second chance. They all deserve the opportunity to be treated right – to be loved and cared for in the way any horse or pony deserves.”

When Bert arrived at Gemma’s yard, he immediately turned the heads of his new equine companions, who weren’t entirely sure what to make of the tiny bundle of energy. Gemma says:

“All of the horses were, ‘Oh my gosh, what is that?’ – not really sure how to take him. But he fits in so well. Jigsaw is his field partner, and he loves him. They all love him – we all love him.”

Our Field Officer Sarah Tucker rescued Bert along with his mother, Lacey, and a large group other Shetlands in July 2023 and says:

“It was a really awful case and it was heartbreaking how many of the ponies didn’t make it. Seeing Bert go on to thrive in a loving home is fantastic – it’s one of the best parts of my job, seeing ponies I’ve rescued from terrible situations blossoming in wonderful new homes.”

If you could offer one of our horses or ponies a loving home, check out our rehoming pages.