Many of the horses and ponies we care for have endured neglect, abuse or trauma that leaves lasting physical and emotional scars. While they are finally safe, healing can take months or even years, requiring specialist veterinary treatment, patient rehabilitation and compassionate care every single day.
Chesney is one of those horses. An 18-year-old chestnut pony, Chesney came to our care after experiencing a traumatic beginning. Very little is known about her past, however, we were told at the time that she was once a circus pony who jumped through hoops of fire. Although she was finally safe, the experiences she had endured left her deeply anxious. In particular, she doesn’t like anything to be close behind her. For these reasons, Chesney will never be rehomed. She will remain with us for the rest of her life and receive the specialist care she needs.
Over the years, with consistency, patience and kindness from our care team, Chesney has begun to discover that people can be safe. While she still has nervous moments, the frightened pony who once struggled to trust has slowly revealed her gentle, affectionate personality.
One of the greatest signs of her progress has been the close friendship she has formed with another Dartmoor mare living at the sanctuary, a reminder that healing isn’talways measured in dramatic milestones, but often in quiet moments of connection.
Chesney’s story is one of resilience, but it also highlights something many people don’t see. For horses who have experienced significant trauma, rehabilitation is a lifelong commitment. Some, like Chesney, will never be suitable for rehoming, she needs a permanent place where she can feel safe, understood and cherished.
Every veterinary appointment, behavioural assessment, specialist treatment, feed, field and gentle interaction is made possible through the generosity of our supporters.
On average, it costs £14,944 to care for one horse for one year. Across our four sanctuaries, every donation helps provide expert veterinary care, nutritious food, safe shelter and the patient rehabilitation that gives horses like Chesney the chance to enjoy life again.
In 2024, we shared the stories of Chesney, Pinky and Seren, three remarkable ponies whose difficult beginnings left lasting emotional and physical challenges. Today, Chesney’s story reminds us why long-term rehabilitation matters.
Healing isn’t always linear. But with time, compassion and expert care, frightened horses can begin to trust, friendships can blossom, and lives can be transformed. Every horse deserves that chance, and thanks to our supporters, that’s exactly what we’re able to give to rescued horses.