Imagine wild ponies galloping freely, their manes flowing in the wind as they traverse the open countryside.
While this picture may seem idyllic, the reality can be much harsher for these animals. Many face a grim fate, with some being culled to maintain the delicate balance of their ecosystem.
Fortunately, rescue organizations are working tirelessly to offer these iconic creatures a second chance at life. Among the ponies they’ve saved are vulnerable newborns like Breeze, a colt whose story is both heartbreaking and heartwarming.
Breeze was discovered abandoned on the moors, cold and severely dehydrated, with no sign of his mother. His desperate attempts to nurse from other mares were met with rejection, leaving him in critical condition.
Thankfully, the Mare & Foal Sanctuary stepped in just in time. They brought Breeze to their facility, where he received the urgent care he needed.
At the sanctuary, Breeze was given round-the-clock attention, including antibiotics and bottle feeding, to help him recover from his traumatic start in life.
But it wasn’t just the medical care that helped Breeze heal. He found an unlikely source of comfort in a large stuffed teddy bear placed in his stall.
The teddy bear quickly became Breeze’s ‘surrogate mother’, offering the warmth and reassurance that his real mother would have provided in the wild.
Breeze would often curl up against the bear’s soft, stubby legs, finding solace in its steady presence as he regained his strength.
With the compassionate care of the sanctuary staff and the comfort of his stuffed companion, Breeze made remarkable progress.
After about a month, Breeze was healthy enough to frolic in the fields with other foals, and his playful spirit was restored. He was now a healthy and happy little pony, full of energy and zest for life.
Thanks to the dedicated team at the Mare & Foal Sanctuary, Breeze is now on track to live a long and happy life, far away from the hardships he once faced.