A once critically neglected Shetland pony who was rescued two years ago from an animal centre in Cornwall has been put to sleep.
Poppy was one of 13 horses and ponies removed from Family Nest Therapy CIC in Par in a rescue operation involving the Mare and Foal Sanctuary, RSPCA, The Donkey Sanctuary and The Horse Trust in summer 2022.
The horses and ponies were very thin and suffering from lice, worms, cuts, scabs and overgrown hooves. Several of them were also covered in paint brush marks from children’s parties.
Earlier this year, the owners and yard manager of the centre were given suspended prison sentences and were banned from keeping animals.
‘She completely won our hearts’
Over the past two years, Poppy had been recovering at the Mare and Foal Sanctuary in Newton Abbot along with her Shetland pony companions, Sherbert and Lola.
However, Poppy was extremely timid and suffered with dental problems.
She had several teeth removed earlier this year, but following further serious issues with her remaining teeth, the Sanctuary made the difficult decision that it was kinder not to continue with treatment.
“We feel devastated to say goodbye to Poppy because she was such a sweet and courageous girl who completely won our hearts,” said sanctuary manager Saskia Joesbury.
“She would often run to the gate to wait for us because she loved cuddles and scratches. She gave us many signs that she enjoyed her time in the fields with her companions Sherbert and Lola.
“We’re glad to have been able to give Poppy a great deal of love and care in the last two years of her life.
“Every horse or pony in our care leaves a hoofprint in our hearts and we all hope Poppy felt loved and valued at the end.”
