Success stories A new lease on life: a Vulnerable Horse Scheme success story

An impeccably bred eight-year-old former racehorse recently found a new lease on life after arriving at HEROS in September 2023 through Retraining of Racehorses’ Vulnerable Horse Scheme.

The handsome 16hh gelding had been in training, although never raced. Upon leaving training, he was taken on by a new owner with hopes of a long and happy life together. However, in late 2020, he faced significant health challenges, being diagnosed with reactive kissing spine, and later suspected of having navicular disease in both front feet.

His owner attempted to address his foot issues through corrective shoeing, but these efforts were unsuccessful. After nearly two years of barefoot turnout, he became sound, but by this time his owners financial and personal circumstances had changed, and she found herself unable to provide the level of care he required. Recognising her limitations and prioritising his wellbeing, she made the decision to seek help from RoR.

RoR plays a critical role in providing resources and support to owners facing difficult decisions about their former racehorses and worked closely with the owner to place the horse with HEROS, RoR’s aftercare partner, through the Vulnerable Horse Scheme.

Upon his arrival at HEROS, who specialise in rehabilitating, retraining, and rehoming former racehorses, the gelding was assessed and found to be bright but lacking in muscle tone and general condition. His feet, long and unbalanced, required immediate attention. Despite these issues, his veterinary assessment showed that his eyes, heart, and lungs were in good condition, although an asymmetric pelvis was identified.

He quickly became a favourite at the yard with his kind and loving nature and his charming ability to smile on command. Through the dedicated efforts of the entire HEROS team, including skilled farriers and a chiropractor, his feet and pelvic asymmetry were significantly improved.

His retraining began with a settling-in period in the field, where he made friends and thrived in the calm environment. The team then focused on building his strength through a tailored rehabilitation program, emphasising groundwork to enhance his core strength and muscle tone. Under saddle, he demonstrated excellent manners, natural paces, and good self-carriage. He quickly became confident hacking out, both alone and in company, presenting himself as an excellent prospect for rehoming.

After multiple visits to ensure the right fit, a previous successful adopter found this wonderful boy to be her perfect match and he was rehomed in late April 2024. He is now thriving in his new life, hacking around the picturesque countryside.

He will continue to be monitored in his new home to ensure both horse and owner remain happy and healthy. Thanks to the unwavering support of RoR and the dedicated care at HEROS, the gelding’s previously uncertain future now looks incredibly bright, with the assurance of ongoing support from both organisations in the event of any future issues.

None of the vital work that RoR does, such as operating the Vulnerable Horse Scheme, would be possible without generous supporters like you. To find out more information about the work we do and/or to make a contribution, please visit our donations page.