Rescue cob gives hope to woman in wheelchair

A young rescue cob has given a woman crippled with arthritis a “reason to get up in the morning”.

Urgent attention

The 18-month old strawberry roan was found fly-grazing in Buckinghamshire with several others. He had a massive worm burden and needed urgent veterinary attention, including specific treatment for encysted small redworm.

Three ponies had already been found dead at the site and a further two had to be euthanised.

Blue Cross stepped in to help and took Rafiki – named after the baboon in the Lion King because of his strong spirit – back to the their rescue centre.

He was nursed back to health before being rehabilitated, ready rehoming with the charity’s loan scheme.

Kind and gentle

His new owner Margaret suffers with severe arthritis. Following major surgery, she is now unable to walk and needs a power wheelchair.

“Once I had got used to the wheelchair I was bored, getting fat, and really missed fresh air and equine company,” said Margaret, who is an experienced horse handler.

“I looked at the Blue Cross website and there he was. It was instant. We went to see him and he was perfect.

“He is kind, gentle and so patient. He seems to understand that wheelchairs are not as versatile as legs, and waits until I have sorted my muddles out.”

Huge difference

Margaret plans to introduce him to as much as she can, including a saddle and bridle. With the help of her daughter she hopes to be able to take him for walks round the village and the farm.

“He is doing me much more good than anything I can do for him,” said Margaret. “He has made such a huge difference to my life. He gives me a reason to get up in the morning.”