 |
 |
 |
 
|
Amazing first year of finding Guardian AngelsWe have been celebrating the first anniversary of our Guardianship Scheme, which finds positive futures for horses and ponies suitable for re-homing.In our first year, we have already re-homed more than 60 horses and ponies into loving families, and we are confident of continued success in future years. The ownership of any equine re-homed through the scheme stays with Redwings, guaranteeing the animal’s future. “We are delighted that the scheme is proving so popular," said Emma Lacey, Redwings Re-homing Manager. "But the real joy is seeing a previously wild or very nervous pony enjoying the training process, learning to be ridden and handled and then going out into a family environment where it is cared for and loved. Any sadness we feel at seeing the pony leave us is compensated by knowing that they will have an active and fulfilled life." One success story is Thyme, a lovely pony originally rescued from the Welsh commons. When she arrived with Redwings she was in a very poor state, had a newly born foal with her and had never been handled. Thyme was extremely protective around her food as she and her baby had been starved so severely in the past she would lash out at anyone who came near.
However, Redwings’ experienced horse handlers spent time working with Thyme getting her used to people and giving her lots of attention, and before long she was ready to go into the backing process (teaching the horse to carry a rider) at the Redwings Parklands Re-homing Centre. “Thyme took to being ridden quickly and she proved to be a really gentle, sweet-natured girl," explains Emma. "It was only a matter of weeks before she was ready to be found a home." Thyme is now living happily with her new guardian family and being looked after by two young girls and their mum who trust her completely. She has been to her first local show where she came second in a show jumping class and even won second prettiest pony in show! Bliss was found by the Norfolk police in early 2006 straying on a busy road and was brought in to Redwings. Although attempts were made to trace her owner, no one ever came forward so the five-year-old mare was signed over into Redwings’ permanent care. She proved to be a lovely little pony and took to being ridden like a duck to water. After a couple of months' training at Redwings Re-homing Centre she was ready to be found a home. Her young guardian says that her and Bliss have developed an extraordinary relationship, more than she ever thought possible and they look forward to many years of fun and love together.
“Taking on any equine is a huge commitment so we would ask people to think it through very carefully before applying," concludes Emma. "Anyone who wants to re-home a Redwings horse or pony should follow the Guardianship Scheme link from the website home page. You can view any suitable ponies and even fill in the application online, which keeps our administration costs down and avoids long waiting lists. Children should always ask an adult to apply on their behalf."
| 
    |
