In August 2022, HorseWorld worked alongside the RSPCA to rescue a desperately neglected mare and foal who were found abandoned in a field with no food, no water, and little chance of survival.
The piebald mare, who we later named Blossom, was in an appalling condition. Severely emaciated, with protruding bones, overgrown hooves, and runny eyes, Blossom was so weak she could barely stand. She had recently given birth, and by her side was a fragile young foal, who we called Forest.
When our team first offered Blossom water, she was so desperately thirsty that we had to ration her intake in small amounts to prevent her system from shutting down. It was clear both mother and baby were on the brink, and they were rushed back to HorseWorld where our vet was waiting to begin emergency treatment.
Not only was Blossom malnourished and dehydrated but she was also suffering from worm and lice infestations, overgrown hooves, dental issues and extreme weakness. Despite her condition, Blossom’s maternal instinct never faltered. Even in her frail state, she constantly put Forest first, watching over him with a strength that inspired the entire team. With dedicated veterinary care, a specialised feeding plan, and months of patient rehabilitation, Blossom began to regain her strength.
Forest's special shoes
When Forest was first rescued, he struggled even to walk. The extreme malnutrition his mother had endured during pregnancy meant his legs hadn’t developed properly. He was incredibly wobbly, unable to pick up his back legs, and every step was a struggle. Blossom had given everything she could to help her foal survive, but now it was our turn to give him the best chance at life.
Our welfare team, vets, and expert farrier worked together to design a rehabilitation plan. It was decided that Forest would be fitted with little glue-on shoes to gently alter the way he walked. These special shoes elevated his heels and brought his toes down, helping to correct his posture and encourage proper muscle and tendon development. Over time, Forest wore four different pairs of these glue-on shoes, each carefully adjusted as his body grew stronger. With every visit from our farrier, his movement improved, his legs straightened, and his confidence blossomed.
Today, Forest not only walks correctly and comfortably, he can finally run, play, and enjoy life to the fullest, just as every young horse should.
Blossom and Forest: Thriving and Happy
Today, both Blossom and Forest are healthy, happy, and thriving in our care. They live in the HorseWorld herd, surrounded by friends and enjoying the safety and care they once lived without.
Blossom has blossomed into a strong, attentive, and loving mare, while Forest is a playful, loveable youngster who adores life. Neither show any signs of the suffering they once endured - proof of how far they’ve come since those dark days in the field. They are both on a personalised training journey in the hopes that one day they could be rehomed through our rehoming scheme.
Because of your generosity, horses like Blossom and Forest get the chance to recover, heal, and live the lives they truly deserve.
