Valentine is thriving at Glenda Spooner Farm a year after her rescue

A pony rescued on 14^th February last year after being found neglected and starving, with nothing to eat or drink, is now unrecognisable. Having been nursed back to health at our Glenda Spooner Farm in Somerset, the little mare, named Valentine after the day she was rescued, is now thriving.

Groom Lily has looked after Valentine since she first came into our care. She says, “She’s doing so well – her personality is really shining through now. We often see their character come out as they get stronger and Valentine has really blossomed since arriving in such a poor state. It’s lovely to see her cantering across the field for her breakfast now. Whoever gets to take her home when she’s ready for rehoming is going to be very lucky!”

Our Field Officer Rebecca Carter discovered the six-year-old mare in a shocking state last year. “I couldn’t believe my eyes when I first saw Valentine, who was being kept in a makeshift paddock. She was underweight underneath her thick winter coat, with no food or water and a badly-fitting rug barely hanging on,” says Rebecca. “I tracked her owner down and gave advice on how to improve her care, but sadly it wasn’t followed for long.” 

Worried locals soon flagged that Valentine had no food or water again. “When I went back, Valentine looked even worse,” recalls Rebecca. “So, I contacted a vet, the police and the RSPCA as the situation needed to be escalated.”

Valentine was removed on veterinary advice and taken to safety, before travelling to Glenda Spooner Farm once she was a little stronger, where the team set about nursing her back to health. With time and patient, expert care, Valentine has transformed into a happy, healthy little pony, with a bright future ahead.

Glenda Spooner Farm is open to visitors 11am-4pm on Wednesdays and at weekends, so anyone looking for a family-friendly day out in half term can book a visit now.