Our Christmas miracles: the incredible recovery of Buddy and Bauble

Last December, two vulnerable young ponies were rescued just in time for Christmas. They were found abandoned and in a wretched condition by our Field Officer Ryan Rouse.

Now, only months later, the two geldings who we named Buddy and Bauble, are thriving at our Penny Farm Rescue and Rehoming Centre thanks to our amazing supporters. We were overwhelmed with how so many of you stepped up to support their recovery.

Buddy and Bauble come into our care

On arrival at Penny Farm, Buddy’s body condition score was found to be just 0.5 out of 5, with Bauble scoring 1 out of 5. Both ponies were less than a year old, struggling with a heavy worm burden and covered in lice.

They were frightened, exhausted and showing clear signs of long-term neglect. Bauble, a piebald colt standing at 11hh, was clearly unwell, but Buddy, a chestnut colt standing at 11.2hh, was so poorly that he couldn’t stand up on his own.

A determined team effort to save these vulnerable ponies

“The team all fell in love with them straight away and were absolutely determined to nurse them back to health,” recalls Assistant Centre Manager Hayley Penrice. “We had to lift Buddy back to his feet every morning for several weeks. But, once we got him up, he was able to stand by himself to eat his hay. It was clear that both ponies were determined to keep fighting so we weren’t going to give up on them. We were all delighted when Buddy became strong enough to get himself up unaided.”

Helping horses thrive

“They had round-the-clock care for the first couple of weeks while they were getting their medication. Since finishing their medication, they continued on ad lib hay and multiple feeds to help them gain weight. We’re delighted that their body condition scores are now a healthy 2.5 out of 5.

“They’ve also had daily handling sessions. Bauble was fully clipped as he still had some problems with his skin but that’s healed well now.”

A brighter future

Both Buddy and Bauble have grown in strength and spirit under the patient and expert care of our team at Penny Farm.

Hayley said: “They are now living in sperate fields with different groups of ponies to help them mature alongside other laid back, confident ponies. Buddy has become the bolder of the two and he’s now out with a group of Welsh ponies who are quite playful. Bauble, who is a little more reserved and timid about some things, is living out with a group of smaller mares. He loves running around and playing with them.”

Compassionate care

At Penny Farm, Buddy and Bauble, have now embarked on individual and personalised rehabilitation plans. As part of this, they have been paired up with their own grooms. They are giving them the tender loving care they need to continue to heal and thrive.

Buddy’s groom, Taylor Dowling, said: “Buddy is really thriving. He loves a brush, scratch and a pamper. Buddy’s back on his feet, growing stronger each day and beginning to enjoy life as a young pony should. His playful personality is shining through, especially when he’s out with the herd. He is very confident with the other horses and loves to play and groom.”

Emily Wood, who is caring for Bauble, said: “Bauble has become so much more confident since his arrival. He’s progressing really well in all aspects. He is now standing nicely for the farrier and he loves being groomed and having time spent with him. Bauble has recently made some new field mates despite being a little shy. He is slowly putting on weight and his skin has almost completely healed. I’m excited to see him progress even further and eventually find himself the lovely new home he deserves!”

The road ahead

As Buddy and Bauble continue on their journey to a brighter future, they will carry on having more handling, including loading practice and then they will hopefully be ready to rehome.

Despite their truly terrible start in life, Buddy and Bauble have a bright, secure future ahead of them. Book your visit to Penny Farm to meet the horses and ponies, including Buddy and Bauble, now.