Urgent intervention for Dakota

Urgent intervention for Dakota

Earlier this year we were alerted to a dangerous situation in South Devon where a young horse was being attacked by a stallion in a field herd. When we arrived, we could see that Dakota was severely injured. 

It’s shocking that many of our welfare cases involve people showing deliberate cruelty or neglect towards ponies and horses. But sometimes we need to step in when illness, poverty, lack of knowledge or the aggression of other animals put the welfare of equines at risk 

Earlier this year we were alerted to a dangerous situation in South Devon where a young horse was being attacked by a stallion in a field herd. When we arrived, we could see that Dakota was severely injured. 

Our Welfare Outreach Coordinator Gillian remembers being horrified by his condition. ‘There were open bite wounds covering his whole body and he was bleeding badly. We knew we had to get him to safety very quickly.’

We brought Dakota straight back to our Beech Trees Veterinary and Welfare Assessment Centre where he had immediate emergency treatment. Gillian says: ‘We wondered if he’d survive because with such severe wounds infection can be a big risk. He must have been in such pain but he allowed us to handle him and treat his wounds without any fuss. He’s such a gentle and sweet-tempered horse.’ 

One of the biggest challenges we face is having the stabling and resources to take in more horses and ponies. We work closely with other charities to help each other at times of high capacity. Dakota stayed with us for a week before the team at World Horse Welfare was kindly able to offer him a permanent place in their care. Dakota is thriving and has won the hearts of everyone there. 

Because of your support we were able to rescue Dakota from a critical situation, take him to safety and give him life-saving care. Thank you.  

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