*Warning graphic images*
A pony rescued by World Horse Welfare with an horrific head wound caused by an embedded headcollar has become the cover star of the charity’s ‘Sponsor a Stable’ campaign.
Moses’ headcollar was embedded in his head. Photo: World Horse Welfare
Moses was only two years old when he was discovered by field officer Charlotte Melvin in October 2019 after a member of the public reported concerns about a number of cobs living in the field.
“Charlotte noticed a strong smell of infection when she approached the last pony on the site and discovered the headcollar had been allowed to become very badly embedded in the top of his head, causing a severe wound which became infected and infested with maggots,” said a World Horse Welfare statement.
Moses was removed under section 18.5 of the Animal Welfare Act and transported to the vets for urgent treatment. He stayed there for four days due to the extent of the injury caused by the headcollar, before being transported to the World Horse Welfare’s Penny Farm.
The wound was infested with maggots. Photo: World Horse Welfare
The pony’s owner pleaded guilty to causing unnecessary suffering to a protected animal and was banned from keeping horses for ten years. They were given a 12-week suspended sentence and ordered to pay a contribution towards prosecution costs of £400 and carry out 60 hours of unpaid work.
“Given how horrific the wound from his headcollar was, I’m really happy with the recovery Moses has made,” said Charlotte.
“Moses’ suffering could so easily have been prevented and it’s awful to think that he could have been left like that if someone hadn’t cared enough to report the situation.”
Vital funds
After cleaning Photo: World Horse Welfare
Moses has made a full recovery and the World Horse Welfare statement said he is “a real character and a firm favourite”, making him an obvious choice to head up the ‘Sponsor a Stableyard’ campaign.
The campaign welcomes donations from as little as £5 a month for one of the charity’s four yards in order to raise vital funds for their ongoing rescue and rehabilitation work.
“With time and care Moses was able to make a full recovery from his horrific head injury under the expert care of the Penny Farm team and his amazing personality really began to shine through,” said the statement.
“It also made him the obvious choice for the campaign encouraging support for the stableyards that provide the vital care and treatment for the horses and ponies like Moses.
All healed: Moses made a full recovery Photo: World Horse Welfare
“Recovery and rehabilitation can take many months at the charity’s before the horses and ponies are healthy and ready to be rehomed.”
Find out more about the campaign here.
