Emerald’s back from the brink
EMERALD, rescued by equine welfare charity, Bransby Horses, has won a national award for her remarkable recovery from severe neglect. The Arab mare was formally recognised at the Animal Hero Awards 2017, hosted by Amanda Holden at London’s Grosvenor House Hotel, winning the ‘Back from the Brink’ category. When Emerald (pictured) was rescued in January 2016 by the RSPCA and Bransby Horses, it was touch and go as to whether or not she would survive. The dedicated team at the horse charity cared for Emerald around the clock, lifting her by hand with a special harness every few hours, until she had the strength to stand alone. Emerald is now in good health and, following veterinary approval, she has started training for riding and it is hoped she will find a loving home in 2018. The vital rescue and welfare work carried out by Bransby Horses is funded entirely by legacies and public donations, which also recently funded a new intensive care unit (ICU). The new ICU features stables with padded walls and rubber floors which are cushioned for horses prone to collapse and are also sealed so it is easy to disinfect when required. Each stable has a bespoke hoist for lifting horses and supporting them to stand. Before this the team of staff lifting horses risked injury or strain, and frail horses were also at risk of injuries from falling against breeze block walls in the old stables. Last year the charity was able to rescue 144 equines, thanks to legacies and donations. It currently cares for more than 400 horses, donkeys and mules. For those that can’t be rehomed, there will always be a safe haven in sanctuary care. The charity couldn’t function without the amazing support it receives from the public, for which it so grateful. If you can help with vital fundraising, collecting used postage stamps, donating unwanted items or would like to volunteer, please get in touch.