Saying Goodbye to Adoption Star April

Horse with staff

Saying Goodbye to Adoption Star April

We have some very sad news about adoption pony April.

Adoption star April began experiencing dental issues earlier this year that were causing her some pain and difficulty eating and that on the advice of our Sanctuary vets we were treating and closely monitoring her condition.  

Unfortunately, her situation started to deteriorate this month and led to a point where our veterinary and sanctuary care staff felt her quality of life was being compromised.  

We are sad to let you know that on the 23rd July we made the difficult decision to put April to sleep to relieve her suffering. We knew that this was the kindest thing we could do for April. 

She was born at the Sanctuary 25 years ago, after we rescued her dam Willow. She has made a great impact in this time, particularly as a member of our education team.  We will all miss April very much and understand that this will be very hard news to hear. 

All of our staff were given the opportunity to say goodbye, give her a hug and remind her of how many people whose hearts she had touched through her life. 

We hope that you will join us in celebrating her incredible life. Your message of support will be of great comfort, especially to our grooms who feel the incredible loss of April the most. You can email as us [email protected]. Gillian Gratton, Welfare Co-ordinator 

“April was a wonderful little pony who was always so lovely to be around. Over the years, she has taught many children to ride and her gentle and calm nature meant that even the smallest of children could be around her to learn about all aspects of caring for a pony. She had some wonderful homes and was very well known; she could often be seen at one of the village schools helping on the school run. ” 

Sally Burton, Head of Sanctuary Care 

“April has the sweetest nature and is a real favourite here at the Sanctuary. She’s been with us since 1996, spending some time on loan as a child’s pony and the last few years on our adoption scheme. Sadly April’s teeth are causing her pain that can no longer be managed with medication so although we will all miss her very much, we know this is the right decision for her.” 

 Dawn Neil, Head of Education and Therapy 

“All the education team have very fond memories of working with April, she was well loved and made such a positive and valuable difference to so many people.  

We take some comfort that she has had the very best care throughout her life in the sanctuaries care.”

Back to all posts