17 March 2026

Ready to Rescue: Harmonia, one of the most emaciated horses we have ever seen

Two photos of Harmonia the horse. On the left is Harmonia on intake, she is very emaciated. On the right is Harmonia now at a healthy weight.

Four thoroughbreds came into our care in March last year. The mares, one of whom was Harmonia who was amongst the most emaciated charity staff had ever seen, were the subject of an RSPCA court case.

We took in a further six last month (February) after the defendant was ordered to rehome them as part of his sentence. The man, from Suffolk, was given a suspended prison term and banned from keeping animals for life.

Our team caring for Harmonia

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A photo of Harmonia the horse's body at intake to Redwings.

Watch their story here.

Chloe Jefferd, one of Redwings’ welfare vets overseeing their care, said: “Harmonia appeared to be in the worst condition. She was severely emaciated and very weak as a result. She was one of the thinnest horses our staff had ever seen and very poorly. She needed a plasma transfusion and intensive care.

“The other three were all in foal and in very poor condition.

“Very sadly we lost Solo to severe parasitic disease shortly after her arrival.

“Calypso was a wonderful mum but after a tumultuous weekend of round-the-clock care, her foal, who was born with several health issues, tragically died.

“Happily, Electra gave birth to a healthy colt, Echo, who is doing well so far.”

Photo of Calypso, Harmonia and Solo the horses at their intake at Redwings.

View our gallery of the horses when they first arrived at Redwings

View image gallery

It took five months of TLC before the mares and foal were ready to leave our quarantine centre. Now, one year on, Harmonia and her friends are settled into Sanctuary life and working with our behaviour team who are preparing them for their futures, whether that be inside or outside of Sanctuary care.

Photo of Harmonia the horse looking healthy.

See Harmonia, Electra, Echo and Calpyso one year later!

View image gallery

A stallion (Zeus), mare (Hera), her filly foal (Artemis), a two-year-old colt (Hermes), a three-year-old colt (Helios) and a gelding (Apollo) from the same location are now also in Redwings’ care.

Chloe said: “Sadly, Zeus also needed a plasma transfusion because of his parasitic burden. All have needed treatment for worms and Zeus, Hermes and Helios will need castrating.

“Whilst this is what we’re here to do, it’s becoming more and more difficult.

“Times are very tough and we need our supporters’ help more than ever to continue to be ready to rescue horses, ponies, donkeys and mules like these, when they most need us.”

If you’re able to make a donation so that Redwings can be Ready to Rescue in cases like this, please click here.