Little fighter Alfie is coaxed back to health
TINY Shetland pony Alfie, along with his friends Tyrian and Tinkerbell, were rescued by an equine welfare charity 11 months ago. Two-year-old Alfie, right, was severely emaciated and weighed a meagre five-and-a-half stone. With his skin pulled taught over his bones and his sunken rump, he was a living skeleton. He was so lethargic that he collapsed in the charity’s trailer and had to be lifted manually by the team. Once they got him safely to their Lincolnshire rescue centre, Alfie, along with Tyrian and Tinkerbell who were also suffering, were monitored around the clock. Blood tests revealed further severe health issues that could only be treated once the delicate Shetland gained strength. Alfie was cared for constantly by the tired, yet hopeful team and he began to make progress on the road to recovery. Now he has a promising future ahead, free from pain and suffering. His personality is shining through and he loves all the attention he gets from staff and visitors. Founded in 1968, the equine welfare charity is now one of the largest in the UK. Set in 600 acres, it includes an intensive care unit, specialist handling yard and rehoming barn, as well as a visitor centre. Care is provided for more than 400 rescued horses, with a further 400 in foster homes. The vital work is funded entirely by legacies and public donations. Please consider leaving a lasting legacy by providing a gift in your will or becoming a regular donor. With your kind gift, the team can continue giving horses like Alfie the better life they deserve.