A critically neglected pony which was abused in one of the worst cases ever has finally found a loving new home.
Sherbert was one of 13 rescued during a multi-agency operation in 2022.
The Shetland pony was emaciated and covered in paint from children’s parties.
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She was also covered in lice and had overgrown hooves and heart issues.
The Judge who presided over the subsequent trial described it as one of the worst cases of animal neglect he had ever encountered.
Several people from the former Family Nest Therapy CIC centre in Par, Cornwall. were given suspended prison sentences and banned from keeping animals.
The Mare and Foal Sanctuary, near Newton Abbot, Devon, took in Sherbert and the 12 other ponies and horses.
Each received tailored veterinary care, behavioural training and long-term rehabilitation.
Now after more than a year of recovery, Sherbert was deemed well enough to join the charity’s loan scheme which places ponies in experienced homes while guaranteeing them lifelong security with the charity.
She has now been rehomed with Christina, from south Wales, whose family stepped forward following the charity’s appeal for a permanent carer.
Christina, who had recently lost three Shetlands belonging to a friend, said she was moved by Sherbert’s story, as reported by Need To Know.
“I’d been looking after four Shetlands for a friend, but last year we lost three, leaving me heartbroken,” she explained.
“Flora, our 32-year-old Shetland, was especially affected after losing her companions.
“We have a house full of rescued ginger-coloured pets and, combined with such a fitting description of her personality, Sherbert seemed the perfect fit.
“The rescue images were heartbreaking but seeing her thrive at the Sanctuary showed the incredible work of the team.
“I knew she’d feel safe in a loving home.
“When I met Sherbert for the first time, I cried tears of joy.
“As I entered her stable, her sweet little nose reached out for attention.
“Despite her past, she was a cuddly ball of fluff.
“I couldn’t believe how much she loved human interaction after everything she had been through.
“We walked her up to the field, but Sherbert had no interest in walking away from us when I took her head collar off.
“Cuddles won over grass.
“She definitely has a big personality and such a sweet nature.
“She follows me around the stables and is very good at finding all the food.
“I’m in a much better habit of shutting the feed room door now.
“It feels like she’s always been here.
“We enjoy walks in the nearby forest, and she loves splashing in the stream.
“Sherbert has truly won my heart, and I can’t imagine life without her.
“Thank you to The Mare and Foal Sanctuary for making this possible.”
Dawn Vincent, of the Mare and Foal Sanctuary said: “By rehoming a pony, carers are directly supporting our mission by allowing us to rescue more horses and ponies in serious welfare situations.”
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