12 January 2022

A new home that's 'Dot' on!

In the last Redwings newsletter we introduced you to Redwings Dot.

Dot was the 100th horse rehomed through the virtual rehoming process, which we introduced in May 2020 in response to the coronavirus restrictions at the time.

Dot was rehomed to her new Guardian Karen in May 2021 as a non-ridden companion.

We caught up with Karen and Dot at the end of last year to see how they were getting on, and Karen proudly told us:

"Well, what a year it has been for us. After very suddenly losing our beautiful horse Flower, we became very worried about Chocci who had been her best friend and companion for almost 10 years. We felt it would be a nice legacy for Flower for us to try and help a horse who needed a forever home and this in turn would help Chocci to get over her sadness of now being alone.

"And so, with the heartbreak of our loss but the need to try to make things better for Chocci I contacted Redwings. The team there was amazing and took lots of time to listen to me and, despite all the Covid restrictions, found us Dot.

"Dot arrived on 14th May and I still cannot believe how amazingly well and quickly she settled in.

Dot and Chocci enjoying a mutual groom

"As the rehoming team recommended, we kept them apart for two weeks, and this gave them lots of time to get used to each other over the fence. Then we let them graze together and it has been a joy to watch how they groom each other and follow each other around all day. We have all enjoyed a lovely, fairly warm summer and Dot has learnt how to walk out on a short hack with us - to be honest, I think she would follow Chocci anywhere now! As Redwings told us she is very good for the farrier, vet and dentist and has very good manners on a lead rein. She quickly got used to our routine and now calls every time I come through the gate. She has very quickly become a very important part of our family."

Dot now loves going on hacks with her new family

Dot's story just goes to show the important role our non-ridden companion ponies play in their new homes - as vital friends for other horses, and much-loved members of their Guardian families.

If you think you could offer a rescued horse a loving home then please click here.