A foal found collapsed and close to death is barely recognisable from the day he was rescued. Skewbald Gerald was discovered dumped in a field (pictured top) on Leatherhead Road in Chessington last summer, after a member of the public had spotted him in need of help.
The youngster underwent several weeks of ongoing veterinary treatment for the neglect he had suffered, including overgrown and cracked hooves, a dry and uncomfortable skin condition, as well as serious malnourishment. The RSPCA said he was “lucky to be alive” and has since transformed into a healthy, happy pony.
Gerald recently won the heart of television personality Pete Wicks, who is now encouraging fellow animal lovers to help the RSPCA rescue more animals in need.
The Only Way is Essex influencer met Gerald during a visit to RSPCA Leybourne Animal Centre in Kent, and saw first-hand his amazing recovery.
“Meeting Gerald was amazing, he’s such an amazing little pony with a big personality,” said RSPCA Ambassador Pete. “I was shocked to see the photos and hear the details of when he was found abandoned and so close to death. It’s so important people understand the scale of the work the RSPCA does day in day out to save the lives of animals like Gerald.”
Following his visit from Pete, Gerald has gone on to start a new life at Bransby Horses in Lincoln.
Helping horses
“One way people can help the RSPCA this week is by entering the Omaze Million Pound House Draw,” added Pete. “It’s an easy way for people to help the RSPCA rescue and change the lives of animals like Gerald – and, it might just change their life too!”
The latest Omaze Million Pound House Draw will offer one person the chance to own a £3,500,000 six-bedroom house, with panoramic views of the Cotswolds countryside. The fundraising campaign will give the charity a minimum of £100,000 and has a target raise of £500,000.
The draw closes on 5 June for online entries and 7 June for postal entries.
