Rehoming , UK Rescue

Buddy’s Christmas miracle continues – he’s ready for a new home

Having been too weak to get up unaided when he was rescued, Buddy is now a happy, healthy young pony.

Posted on 30/04/2026

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In December last year, Buddy was rescued along with his friend Bauble after being found in urgent need of help by our Field Officer Ryan Rouse. When the two young ponies reached our Penny Farm Rescue and Rehoming Centre, it became apparent just how emaciated and unwell they were.

Buddy in particular was desperately weak. He had to be lifted to his feet by the Penny Farm team for several weeks, including over Christmas, receiving round-the-clock care throughout the festive period. However, his spirit and will to survive were obvious, despite how ill he was, and the team were absolutely determined to nurse him back to health.

*Buddy was extremely weak when he first arrived and the team had to lift him to his feet repeatedly.*

After lots of TLC from our expert staff and regular attention from our vets, Buddy began to regain his strength, slowly but surely. Once he was well enough to go out with a group of ponies of a similar size, his character really began to shine through. Now, he’s transformed into a bold young pony and is ready to find a home of his own.

Having found Buddy and Bauble in such a dreadful state, Ryan says:

“I’m delighted to see Buddy doing so well – it’s an extraordinary transformation from the desperately ill little pony I found in December and a real testament to the dedication of the Penny Farm team. Buddy and Bauble were so weak I wasn’t sure if they would even survive, let alone thrive, so to see Buddy ready for rehoming just over four months later is incredible.”

Two tiny ponies stood on a bed of shavings. — *Buddy and Bauble enjoying some hay in one of the Penny Farm crew yards during their recovery.*

Whilst Buddy has blossomed so much that he’s ready to start a new chapter in a loving home of his own, Bauble is taking the time he needs to build his confidence. Assistant Centre Manager Hayley Penrice says:

“It’s great that Buddy is ready to find a new home given how touch and go it was when he arrived. Having needed round-the-clock care to begin with, it was a real milestone when he was strong enough to start going out with other ponies. Buddy has spent the last few months gaining the weight he needed and growing his coat back after he had to be clipped for us to treat his skin when he first arrived. He’s turned into a such a bold, friendly little pony that we hope he’ll make a lovely children’s pony when he’s old enough.

“Bauble is doing really well too, but isn’t quite ready to find a home yet. He’s more timid than Buddy and needed a lot of treatment on his legs due to having really bad scabs. His groom is still building his confidence with grooming and working on his handling skills. He’s come on in leaps and bounds though, and loves running around and playing with his friends in the field.”