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Pandora and PeachesMany horses and ponies that Redwings rescues are in need of help because they are very underweight. It is important to remember that being too fat is also a serious problem for any animal and can really affect their health and quality of life. Peaches and Pandora came to Redwings when they were absolutely obese, they looked as if they were about to burst at the seams. They were living in a small herd in Essex and had access to a huge area of pasture. Sounds like horsy heaven doesn’t it? Sadly, horses don’t tend to regulate their own diet and will carry on eating and eating regardless. Native ponies are often prone to putting on weight easily and letting them gorge themselves like this is as negligent as not providing them with enough food.
Pandora has a huge neck and a very big bottom! Being overweight can affect an equine in several ways. Like humans, the extra weight puts strain on their heart, lungs and joints. They can’t move around as fast or as easily as they would do if they were healthier and struggle especially in hot weather. Most dangerous of all is the risk of an illness called laminitis, which is closely linked to obesity and overeating. Both Pandora and Peaches were suffering from laminitis when they were rescued and needed immediate veterinary treatment to help ease the pain in their feet. Both ponies needed to lose a lot of weight, but no animal should ever be dieted by starving them. Weight loss should be achieved by establishing a sensible, healthy eating routine and, if possible, ensuring some of the excess fat is burnt off through exercise as well. Starvation rationing is very bad for an equine’s digestive system and can increase the risk of colic. It can also makes horses and ponies grumpy and even aggressive. Donkeys in particular have to be dieted VERY carefully with expert guidance as sudden changes in diet can make them seriously ill, sometimes fatally. Luckily, Pandora and Peaches are in good hands and our experienced Redwings’ staff are helping to get their figures back without affecting their health or happiness! For more information on food and nutrition, laminitis or donkey care, please look at the relevant Redwings’ welfare leaflet by clicking here.
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