Arya slowly responds to love and care
Chestnut Dartmoor Hill pony Arya arrived in 2016 as an orphaned foal. We soon learned that Arya has complex needs and must remain in the specialist care of the Sanctuary for life. Her extreme anxiety can lead to unpredictable behaviour, but she responds best when she has consistency and routine. She lives at our quieter, peaceful Yelverton Moorland Rescue Facility.
Arya’s assigned handler Amy provides the daily reassurance she needs, and they train well together. Amy is bringing small changes and enrichment into Arya’s life very gradually and, with the help of our equine behaviourist, is learning to assess and manage her reactions. Arya is learning to remain calm when people walk past her stable and she is rewarded with a small handful of feed. Amy is now able to comfortably brush Arya’s tail, which is a massive achievement.
Amy is also able to lead Arya out of the yard, across the road and into a different paddock. This new routine has brought even more enrichment into Arya’s life as she is handled more and can socialise in a large grassy paddock as part of a bigger herd.
With patience and understanding Arya’s confidence is growing and she will continue to live a peaceful, fulfilled life with us.
Arya’s journey is one of love, patience, and growth, but her story doesn’t end here. At the Mare and Foal Sanctuary, we are committed to providing the lifelong care and support Arya and others like her deserve. Every donation helps us offer the specialized care, routines, and enrichment that make such a difference in the lives of these extraordinary equines.
Your support ensures that horses like Arya receive the attention, comfort, and love they need to thrive. Please consider making a donation today to help us continue this vital work. Together, we can give these beautiful equines peaceful and fulfilled lives.
Donate now to support Arya and our horses and ponies here.