Life beyond rescue: Buggy’s tale

Some of you may remember the shocking story of Buggy, a young foal who was found in 2016. The little piebald cob was almost too weak to stand, with maggots eating through extensive wounds which had been left untreated on his back.

A small piebald cob standing sideways on in poor condition, with sores visible on his hind end — How Buggy was found in 2016, with maggots eating through his wounds.

Buggy’s coat was clipped, which along with other treatment, helped his skin to heal and recover.

He underwent urgent veterinary treatment straight away before finally being well enough to be transported to our Penny Farm Rescue and Rehoming Centre in Lancashire where he began his rehabilitation. 

We reported on his incredible recovery at the time and again a year later when he remarkably went on to win the Rescue Pony Champion title at Equifest in 2017.

But what has become of Buggy since his competition success? Well, it wasn’t long before he was rehomed by Linda in December 2017 as a companion for her horse – the scarring on his skin meant he was not suitable to be ridden.

Buggy leaving Penny Farm for his new home in 2017.

Buggy is now a fully grown eight-year-old and has gone from strength to strength, with his cheeky personality really shining through. 

Linda reflects on her six years with Buggy:

“Buggy just loves being dirty, and he’s a cheeky chap who enjoys winding up the big horses but he’s such a superstar when he patiently accompanies the others in his role as travelling companion. We love him, he really makes me smile every day.”

Recently, Buggy has started long-reining, with a view to training him to harness, as the tack required does not affect any of his scarred areas. He’s taken to it like a real professional, thoroughly enjoying being out and about and is proving to be a very brave pony.  

We all look forward to hearing how he gets on in the future. 