Oliver
Oliver arrived at Redwings in 2008 after being rescued by the RSPCA. He was underweight, infested with lice and suffering from a recurrent airway obstruction (RAO). RAO is common in Britain where horses are kept in their stables for long periods with little ventilation. Dust, pollen and mould spores all contribute to the condition, which can have tragic consequences if left untreated.
Severity varies between sufferers but, as asthma sufferers will know, severe RAO attacks can be very distressing and potentially dangerous. The RSPCA’s vet who dealt with Oliver’s case suggested that he had been suffering ‘for several months’. Oliver was kept with another horse named George, but very sadly George did not make it and had to be put to sleep.
The RSPCA brought a successful prosecution against Oliver’s former owners, with suspended jail sentences given to the family, along with costly fines and lifelong bans on keeping any animal. Those past years of discomfort, torment and neglect are now a distant memory for the cheeky skewbald cob, who lives with friends Snuffles and Will at our Oxhill Centre in Warwickshire.
Although he is now much improved, Oliver’s RAO still needs to be kept under control and he has a special inhaler for when the pollen count is high.
Equine Centre Manager at Redwings Oxhill, Helen Glen says: “It was extremely upsetting to see 15-year-old Oliver when he came to us so underweight and lacklustre. He had a severe lung infection, was lethargic, quiet and miserable.
“After months of treatment for his breathing problems, which included the use of his inhaler, and lots of loving care he is now a changed horse. Oliver is full of life, very cheeky and always likes to know what is going on.”
