The rescue was just the beginning for Mouse.

A donation from you today will make sure that horses and ponies like Mouse continue receiving the kindness and care they need.

When Bodmin Hill Pony, Mouse, first arrived at the Sanctuary, following a large-scale multi agency rescue on East Moor, he was absolutely terrified. In fact, he was one of the most nervous ponies we had ever worked with. If a leaf blew across the yard, he would be startled. This fear of the environment around him caused him a great deal of anxiety, and every new situation he faced increased his stress levels.

Mouse had been through so much before he arrived at the Sanctuary: desperate conditions on the moors, a major round up and rescue mission and months spent at a holding centre. It all took its toll and increased his fear. At this point we had to question whether we would be able to provide him with enough training to see progress and improve his quality of life.

Initially it was very difficult for anyone to get close to Mouse, including our Sanctuary vet, Richard. This has caused difficulties when it comes to treating his medical conditions. In cases of trauma nothing can be rushed.

Mouse has been receiving care at our Sanctuary, Honeysuckle Farm, for several years now, but its only within the last few months in particular that we have seen a positive change in him.

Head Groom Terri has taken over his care and they have developed a strong bond. She uses a very calm, consistent and gentle approach and this gives Mouse confidence. He looks to her for comfort and reassurance. He has even started to show her some of his quirky personality. He really enjoys a little tickle of his top lip! Terri can use her knowledge of his likes and dislikes to soothe him in situations he may find stressful.

Mouse can now be led to the nearby field with just one groom rather than two. Terri can also now touch Mouses front legs and most other areas of his body, which they practise most days.

Its upsetting to think of what would have happened to Mouse if we hadnt been able to step in.

We ensure that horses and ponies have a sanctuary for life with us. Most are given care for life through our network of knowledgeable carers. Those horses and ponies with more complex needs are cared for in our peaceful sanctuaries.

A donation from you today to our appeal will make sure that horses and ponies like Mouse continue receiving the kindness and care they need.

Read more about Mouse here.