A pregnant mare in need...
In 2019, Delilah was signed over to HorseWorld when her owner, who had recently had a baby, could no longer give her the time and care she deserved. At the time, Delilah was heavily pregnant, and there were serious concerns for her unborn foal. A gelding in the field posed a potential risk, and her owner feared the foal may not be safe once born. Wanting the best possible outcome for both mare and foal, the decision was made to sign Delilah over to HorseWorld so she could receive the care, supervision, and security she needed.
Ivy's arrival...
Soon after arriving, Delilah safely gave birth to a beautiful filly who we named Ivy. Because of the support she received at HorseWorld, Ivy had a far safer start in life than she might otherwise have faced. Delilah proved to be a devoted and attentive mum, doing an amazing job raising her little one. Ivy grew up alongside other youngsters in the herd, learning vital social skills and building confidence in a nurturing environment. Watching her grow from a tiny foal into a bright, inquisitive young horse has been a joy for the team.
Delilah's health challenges...
In 2021, Delilah faced her biggest challenge yet. She became critically ill with pneumonia, and for a time, we weren’t sure she would pull through. After emergency treatment at an equine hospital, this brave little mare was finally able to return home, but her recovery was far from straightforward. She was placed on a heavy course of steroids and left with serious scarring on her lungs. As is often the case for humans too, the steroids caused significant weight gain. However, the lung scarring meant she couldn’t do any robust exercise to help shift the extra weight. Delilah began to feel sorry for herself and seemed to lose her sparkle. It was heartbreaking to see such a kind, gentle mare struggling both physically and emotionally.
Road to recovery...
Then came Jemma, a former HorseWorld groom who was determined to help Delilah regain her health and confidence. With guidance and support from HorseWorld, Jemma carefully monitored Delilah’s breathing rate every day and developed a structured, gradual exercise programme tailored specifically to her respiratory limitations. Every step was taken with caution and care to ensure Delilah could safely begin to lose weight without compromising her lungs. Through patience, consistency, and dedication, Delilah began to make steady progress. Over time, she lost an incredible 60kg, dramatically improving her health and mobility. Just as importantly, her personality began to shine again. The sparkle slowly returned to her eyes, and she started to feel like her perky self once more.
A bond that became a forever home...
Throughout this journey, the bond between Delilah and Jemma grew incredibly strong. Having supported her through illness, rehabilitation, and every milestone in between, Jemma knew she couldn’t imagine Delilah going anywhere else. Delilah was rehomed with Jemma, where she is now thriving in a loving, permanent home. She is settled, cherished, and even has birthday parties thrown in her honour - a joyful celebration of just how far she has come.
Ivy today...
Meanwhile, Ivy continues to flourish at HorseWorld. Now growing into a confident and capable young mare, she is progressing well in her training and preparing for her own future rehoming opportunity. She is currently in the early stages of being backed, taking everything in her stride with a calm and willing attitude. As with all our young horses, her education is being introduced gradually, ensuring she builds confidence and understanding at every step. From groundwork and long reining to getting used to carrying a rider, Ivy is showing herself to be bright, responsive and eager to learn. With the safe start she was given at HorseWorld, Ivy is developing into a well-rounded horse with a very exciting next chapter ahead.
