News stories
Sad news about Bramble the Shire
We are very sorry to announce that Bramble the Shire from Bracknell Forest Council has sadly passed away, aged 20.
Shire horse Bramble arrived at Redwings in September 2008 with his workmate Bracken from Bracknell Forest Council, with the plan that they would enjoy a well-deserved retirement here in Norfolk after a life spent working in and around the town.
Sadly, Bramble was suffering with chronic arthritis in both hind limbs, which is typical of an older working heavy horse. This resulted in him requiring lots of veterinary care, which he received in full. We have a Horse Hospital here at Redwings, together with full-time equine vets and carers who are very experienced in dealing with the needs of the veteran horse.
Unfortunately, arthritis then developed in Bramble’s right forelimb, which failed to respond to joint medication or anti-inflammatory medication and so the difficult decision was made to put Bramble to sleep. He was 20 years old, a very respectable age for a working heavy horse, and we are pleased we could offer him so many happy days grazing at Redwings with his pain reduced.
He was much loved by his carers, and the decision was very difficult but Redwings’ interests lie in what is best for each individual equine and in this case we felt that Bramble was facing a very painful and distressing future, as we could not stop the worsening of his condition.
Bramble and Bracken in action
His best friend Bracken has made new friends and is coping well. Horses are intelligent so he realises Bramble is missing but he is in the right place to develop new close friendships with other equines and we are closely monitoring his mental and emotional health. We know the residents of Bracknell will be very sad to hear the news about Bramble and we are thinking of them all at this difficult time.
Cllr Mrs Dorothy Hayes, executive member for the environment at the council, said: "I am deeply saddened to hear the news of the loss of one of Bracknell's most beloved residents.
"Bramble was a loveable work horse who enjoyed meeting the borough's people and enjoyed receiving pats from both young and old. I have heard Bracken has bonded with the other horses at Redwings Horse Sanctuary but no doubt he will miss his friend.
"My sympathies also go out to the staff at the sanctuary at this time, who will also be saddened by the loss of one of their residents."
