Success Stories

Hugo and Gabriel were found severely underweight and suffering with sores when we rescued them in June 2022. We were shocked to find these two magnificent Andalusian horses in this state.

“When I mentioned that I love horses, my support worker told me about The Mare and Foal Sanctuary’s This Girl Can Exercise with Equines programme funded by Sport England. I struggle with anxiety and had become quite isolated. I wanted to try something different and coming to the sanctuary felt like it might be a good fit."

Lola is an 11-year-old palomino Shetland who went to live with her carer family as a companion to a ridden pony last spring.

When Robin arrived at the sanctuary in 2018, he was already blind in his right eye but was managing to cope well. Earlier this year we noticed that his eye was starting to cause him some discomfort.

For Maisie, equine assisted activity sessions are about rebuilding confidence. Maisie has only recently begun her sessions at The Mare and Foal Sanctuary’s Coombe Park Education and Equestrian Centre, but mum, Lucy, is already noticing a difference.

Daisy joined our equine assisted learning programme to help with feelings of anxiety. Working alongside our equine assisted learning facilitators and our rescued horses and ponies can help to build a sense of connection for participants.

When Tilly joined our equine assisted learning programme her anxiety was having a serious impact on her daily life. She was unable to go to school or leave the house.

Sadly, some rescued horses and ponies who arrive here have endured the most terrible trauma and from Aura’s behaviour we knew that she had suffered more than most.

We are always a friendly voice for anyone who isn’t coping with the care and welfare of their equine(s) so when Tinkerman’s owner called us, we were glad they did.