Latest Rescues
Tommi
Tommi, a 24-year-old Standardbred gelding, was abandoned in a paddock with no food, care, or veterinary treatment. For approximately two years, he was left to fend for himself, suffering in silence until a concerned neighbor reached out for help.
When I first arrived to meet Tommi, I was overwhelmed with a deep sense of sadness and despair. Witnessing the extent of his suffering was heart-wrenching. His body was nothing more than skin and bones, his face gaunt, and his eyes withdrawn—almost lifeless. When I looked into his deep, sunken eyes, I made him a promise that day: he would never be alone or suffer again.
Tommi was surrendered into my care, and immediately, a team of veterinarians was called to assess his condition. His body score was a mere 0, and despite his dire state, we had no choice but to attempt the float ride to safety. He was in grave need of help, and we knew that without intervention, he wouldn’t survive much longer.
Upon his arrival at the sanctuary, our veterinary team started treatment without delay. A tailored feeding plan was developed to help Tommi slowly regain weight, replenishing his body with the essential vitamins and nutrients he desperately needed. His blood test results were so severe that the vets questioned whether he would make it.
For the next six months, Tommi fought for his life. He was treated for multiple infections, struggled with several organ issues, and endured countless bouts of colic. He underwent surgeries to remove damaged teeth, treat ulcers, and address mouth infections. His hooves with their deep crevices marked the struggle he had endured.
Tommi’s journey of recovery was long, and at times, it seemed like an uphill battle. But through it all, this brave and gentle soul never gave up. And most importantly, he was never alone again.
Today, Tommi’s story is one of resilience, healing, and the unbreakable bond that formed between him and those who fought for his survival. We are honored to share his journey, and we will continue to provide him with the love, care, and security he deserves.
Tommi- 1 Year on
Beautiful Tommi has found his love for life. He now gallops freely, bucking, playing, and rolling in the lush green grass—a stark contrast to the heartache he once endured. The trust we share with him, especially after the abandonment and neglect he suffered at the hands of humans, is nothing short of remarkable. I will never understand how anyone could allow an animal so reliant on us for survival to suffer so terribly.
But today, the light has returned to Tommi’s eyes. They shine once again with a zest for life, sparkling with happiness. He has gained over 150kgs and is thriving, each day becoming stronger and more joyful. He has found a forever friend in Molly, an elderly pony who was also recently rescued. It was love at first sight, and now, they are inseparable, a pair that brings each other comfort and companionship.
Tommi is a gentle soul, and though his spirit was almost broken, his will to live has proven to be unyielding. Like all the animals who join the sanctuary, he is so deserving of a life filled with love, kindness, and security. We are deeply grateful to witness his transformation.
We see you, Tommi. You are now safe, respected, valued, and, most of all, you are oh so loved. x
Into the light
“Sheep — like so many animals farmed for their meat and fibre — are often only ‘valued’ as commodities, not as the individuals they are.
Sadly, most people will never get to know a sheep as a loved companion, and so will never understand just how affectionate and loving these animals are, each with individual personalities”
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