Brucie

2014 | Skewbald | Shetland | Under 10hh

It is a sad fact that Covid 19 took a huge toll on people’s lives – and their businesses.

Back in December 2021 we were approached to see if we could help with a miniature Shetland suffering from chronic laminitis. This is an awful disease of the horses’ feet and is very painful.

Despite being a much-loved pony, the family business was struggling and with a new small family too, the situation had become completely overwhelming.

Fortunately, we were in a position to help at the time and Brucie was duly collected.

He was clearly painful on arrival – he walked with his front legs held stiffly ‘like fence posts’, to avoid putting weight on his toes, his hooves also showed evidence of bruising.

Our skilled Farrier John Brannen, got to work as soon as Brucie arrived, his heels had grown almost as long as his toes. Once carefully trimmed, his feet were in better alignment and the road to recovery began.

When he was well enough, Brucie was introduced to our Shetland herd – but it took some time for him to be fully integrated.

Thankfully, he is now living his best life with many friends.

Like most ponies who have suffered from Laminitis in the past, Brucie needs to be carefully monitored. Even then, when the weather and grass growth are unpredictable, he has experienced one or two mild episodes – we can never be too vigilant.

For this reason, it is highly likely that Brucie will stay with us long-term, unless we can find a suitably experience foster home able to provide the level of care he needs.