13 March 2023

A sad farewell to Adoption Star Dolly

We are absolutely heartbroken to announce the passing of much-loved retired Adoption Star Dolly on March 1st, 2023.

Sadly, that morning, Dolly came down with a sudden bout of colic, a severe type of abdominal pain that can be a sign of something very serious. Our Head Vet Nicky and vet nurse Phoebe were already on site and were by her side within moments. Despite their quick actions and immediate pain relief, Dolly was still incredibly uncomfortable and, at her age, surgery was unfortunately not an option. With no further treatment options available, the decision was made that Dolly should be put to sleep to ensure she did not suffer any further. She was 27 years old.

Lovely Dolly has been one of our longest serving Adoption Stars, after she arrived at Ada Cole Memorial Stables (prior to the charity’s merger with Redwings) in 1998. She’d been discovered in a ditch, where she’d been for three whole days, and in her attempts to get out had managed to cause some serious wounds to her legs. Her owner was unable to afford her vets bills so it was decided that she would come and live at Redwings.

She enjoyed many happy years greeting her adoring fans at Redwings Ada Cole before retiring from the scheme in 2020 at the age of 25.

We know she has brought so much joy to so many adopters, visitors and staff over the years, and she will be so missed.

Rest in Peace Dolly, we love you very much.