Leicester’s First Steps to Recovery
Rehome was always the goal for Leicester, who was found in 2018 running loose along the Humber Bridge with two other nervous, unhandled ponies under a year old. On arrival, Leicester was treated for lice and a high worm burden before moving to the Animal Reception Centre to build his health and trust in humans. Once ready, he moved to the main farm for essential handling, TLC, and love, all preparing him for his future rehoming journey.
A Special Bond
In October 2020 a new Welfare Assistant joined the team at Bransby Horses, and immediately fell in love with Leicester.
Unfortunately, he experienced some health problems along the way which slowed his progression onto the rehoming scheme, however as soon as these were overcome and Leicester was ready to be rehomed, Heidi knew she had to seize the opportunity to apply to be his Perfect Partner.
Following successful progression through the application process, in July 2021, Leicester was ready to be rehomed and went off to his new home.
Here is what Heidi has to say about her time with Leicester so far:
“I fell in love with Leicester from the first day I met him. He stomped over to me and stuck his little nose in my face for some cuddles before following me around the field. I instantly felt a bond with him and looked forward to every day at work where I would be able to see him.
He is such a good boy and easy to do in all ways; his cheeky playful character has really come out since becoming settled in his new home which is something he was quite reserved with and didn’t display much before.
Leicester the Helper
He loves human interaction; particularly from my Husband and has managed to turn my previously non-horsey Husband into very much a horse person! Leicester has to be involved in anything and everything we’re doing.
Poo picking? Let me help by tipping over the full wheelbarrow for you!
Putting up electric fencing? I should probably help by moving things out of your reach!
Naturally after each instance of ‘helping’ he demands some scratches as a thank-you for a job well done. Every day with Leicester is a joy and I love knowing that I get to see him every single day without fail.
Overcoming Challenges
When Leicester first came home, food aggression was something I knew we would have to work on. Though never truly aggressive, he would get severe anxiety as soon as food was in the picture, stalk and block whoever was holding the food. Through some consistent training around meal times and in a very short space of time, Leicester is now very respectful of personal space and boundaries when there is food in his field.
We recently tried our hand (and hoof) at online showing and came first! He is such a special boy and I can’t wait to see where we go in the future.
To anyone looking to rehome a pony, I thoroughly recommend having Bransby Horses find you your Perfect Partner. The matching process is tailored to ensure the best match is secured and it’s a fantastic way to find your new best friend and give a rescue pony a chance at a forever home.”
