11 September 2025

We love Rehoming - Sue and Estelle

Photo of Sue stood with her rehomed Redwings horse Estelle before a show.

Redwings currently has over 700 horses and ponies in Guardian homes! By rehoming horses as ridden, unbacked projects and companions we are able to open our gates to more horses in need, and find perfect homes for those who don’t need to stay inside the sanctuary.

Rehomed Redwings horses, ponies and donkeys can be found doing a huge variety of things; from being much loved companions such as Audrey, happy hackers turned Norfolk Show Champions such as Matty, to reliable riding school horses such as Jonesy and his friends at Turpins Lodge.

As with any horse, life with rehomed horses can come with unexpected challenges. We are so grateful to have so many amazing Guardians who meet these challenges head on to ensure the best care for their horse. One such Guardian is Sue who has cared for Estelle since 2022.

Sue running alongside her rehomed horse Estelle going over a tire obstacle.

Sue and Estelle doing some in-hand work.

Estelle came to Redwings in 2016 following a large-scale operation in Wales involving around 400 horses found living in poor conditions. Estelle recovered well and was identified as being a good candidate for our rehoming programme, so began ridden training at Redwings Oxhill. The team fell in love with her, and her carer Jade even entered her in some online dressage competitions as part of her training!

Sue applied to rehome Estelle in late 2021 and our team thought they would be the perfect pair! However, when Estelle’s blood results, as part of her final rehoming health check, revealed she had PSSM (Polysaccharide Storage Myopathy) their future became uncertain. PSSM is a genetic condition that causes a build up of glycogen in the muscle cells. This causes muscle stiffness and cramping, especially after exercising. Knowing this, Sue still felt able to take on Estelle and her additional care and management needs. With the help of the Redwings vets, a care plan was devised and it was decided that Estelle could be rehomed.

Sue leading her rehomed horse Estelle through a pole maze.

Sue and Estelle navigating a pole maze.

Despite having ridden for many years, Sue had never had her own horse before Estelle but was ready to step up and provide the care that Estelle needed. Sue said: "Estelle was to be the first horse of my own, so I wasn't a confident owner, but I worked closely with my riding instructor and vet to prepare myself and get ready to bring her home."

“Once she arrived, we took things very slowly. Due to Estelle’s PSSM diagnosis I followed a plan set for me by Redwings to gradually increase her exercise. We started with lots of in-hand walking, and just five minutes of ridden work per day at the start!”

Thanks to diligently following the plan, Sue and Estelle are now happily taking part in a variety of activities! Sue explained; “Estelle is so curious and brave! We both love to hack and regularly amble around a local park where we meet walkers, cyclists and dogs. Estelle takes it all in her stride! There are also a few fields where we go for a good canter together. We’ve also done a couple of fun rides and would love to do more of those.”

It isn’t just hacking that the pair get up to, Sue said; “We regularly do E-rider dressage, and we’ve even gone out to a few competitions. I choose the relaxed and inclusive ones as I don’t want either of us to be stressed!”

Sue and her rehomed horse Estelle doing a dressage test.

Sue and Estelle doing a dressage test.

Despite Estelle’s weight being managed through regular exercise and careful grass restriction, unfortunately, in 2023 Sue started to see some changes in Estelle. Sue explained; “Estelle started showing me some difficult behavioural changes. I asked my vets to assess her and she was diagnosed first with the beginning of laminitis, then pyloric ulcers. With the help of Avonvale vets, and the Redwings team, we found a treatment and prevention plan. It was the worst time we’ve had, however some good came of it as we discovered swimming!

“We were recommended swimming for laminitis recovery, but it became clear very quickly that Estelle enjoyed it. We’ve kept it as part of our routine ever since as it’s fun for Estelle but also helps us manage her weight without over-taxing her with ridden work which would trigger her PSSM.”

Estelle enjoying a swim!

“I always knew Estelle might need some extra care, because of her PSSM but also because she’s a rescue horse who had a poor start in life. She has regular physio to keep her comfortable but also to catch issues before they build up. I also do a lot of groundwork, and have regular lessons too. This benefits us both as I can observe how Estelle is moving and it strengthens our relationship.”

Sue and Estelle enjoying a hack together.

Could you give a home to a rescue horse like Estelle? Find out more about rehoming, who we have available, and how to apply here (https://www.redwings.org.uk/support-us/rehome-a-rescued-horse).

Sue described her experience with rehoming as; “My experience has been excellent. The staff have always been available to talk, I feel very supported!”