23 May 2024

Helping nervous Sourdough

Sourdough is one of twelve mares who were carrying foals when rescued from desperate, cramped conditions in August 2022. She gave birth to filly foal Doughball (who looks just like her) in April 2023.

Soon after arriving at Redwings, Sourdough showed signs that led us to suspect that she was affected by a bacterial infection in her foot. Treating her was difficult because Sourdough was very nervous of anybody’s attempt to handle her.

Donate to the appeal

£18

could pay for veterinary tests, to understand the symptoms of a resident taken ill.

£24

could help provide a pregnancy test for a newly arrived sanctuary resident.

£26

could help an unhandled or nervous resident through behaviour training.

Overcoming her fears

Felicity, Catherine and Michelle work with horses at Redwings to overcome anxieties that might stem from bad experiences in the past or from receiving no handling at all before coming into our care.

The team worked patiently with Sourdough, building her confidence as she grew used to being handled, learning that it is normal and safe. This unhurried, consistent approach led to a point where the team can now treat Sourdough’s foot without the use of sedation.

Baby Doughball (who now looks just like her Mum!) was born in April 2023

Sourdough, her foal and their future

Doughball has spent much of her first year with her mum at Redwings’ Horse Hospital. The problem affecting Sourdough’s foot is a serious condition called canker, which requires long-term treatment.

Today, Sourdough is a much more relaxed patient. Her affected foot is frequently assessed, any unhealthy tissue is removed, and the condition is treated daily with a specially formulated paste.

Our commitment

Please donate today to support the next horse, pony or donkey who needs help to overcome their fears and treatment for a long-term condition. Thank you.

You can donate as above, or text HEAL 10 to 70450 to donate £10*.