A painful beginning...
Back in 2020, HorseWorld was contacted by the RSPCA about a little Shetland pony in urgent need of help. Charlie had been removed from a neglectful home where he hadn’t been on the right grazing for his breed and size. As a result, he developed Laminitis - a painful and potentially life-threatening condition that causes inflammation and serious damage inside the hoof.
To make matters worse, Charlie’s hooves had been left untrimmed for such a long time that they curled and twisted into a shape resembling Aladdin’s slippers (pictured below). When he first arrived at HorseWorld, Charlie was in so much pain that he could barely walk; every step he took was agony. His little face carried the weight of exhaustion, pain and defeat.
Charlie’s rehabilitation was a slow and careful process. It required patience, expertise, and most importantly, kindness. Our dedicated farrier visited regularly, gradually trimming his hooves back into a healthier shape. It was a slow process to avoid causing Charlie further discomfort.
At the same time, his diet had to be strictly managed to support his recovery from Laminitis and prevent flare-ups. Our grooms and vets worked together tirelessly, ensuring Charlie’s every need was met. With each passing week, he grew stronger and began to show glimpses of his bright, cheeky personality.
Most of all, Charlie himself proved to be an inspiration. Despite everything he had been through, he showed remarkable courage and resilience. Slowly but surely, he rediscovered the joy of simply being a pony again – grazing in the paddocks, trotting freely, and enjoying gentle affection from his grooms.
From recovery to Discovery...
Once Charlie had fully recovered, it became clear that this little Shetland had something truly special about him. His gentle, friendly nature made him a perfect candidate for our Discovery programme – HorseWorld’s equine-assisted learning sessions designed to help vulnerable children and young people.
Charlie took to his new role with enthusiasm. The children and young people who meet him are often facing challenges of their own, and Charlie’s story of survival and bravery resonates deeply with them. His cheeky personality, combined with his kind eyes and small but mighty spirit, has made him a much-adored member of the Discovery herd.
Through his work, Charlie helps students to build confidence, develop trust, and find comfort in the bond they share with him. Time and again, we’ve seen young people leave their sessions with Charlie standing a little taller, smiling a little brighter, and believing a little more in themselves.
Today, Charlie is thriving at HorseWorld. No longer the defeated little pony we first met, he is now a vibrant, confident, and much-loved character. His journey from neglect and pain to recovery and happiness is nothing short of remarkable.
Charlie has also become a Sponsor Pony, meaning supporters can play a direct role in his ongoing care. Sponsorship helps to provide the food, veterinary attention, and specialist support Charlie and others like him need to live healthy, happy lives. In return, sponsors receive regular updates about Charlie’s adventures, making them part of his incredible journey.
Every day, Charlie continues to inspire - whether it’s the young people he meets through Discovery, the supporters who follow his story, or the team here at HorseWorld who are privileged to care for him. His story is a powerful reminder that with the right care, love, and compassion, even the most neglected pony can find hope and a new purpose.