On the property where we live we have fields all around us, and the farmer keeps cattle and sometimes a horse in them. I started feeding Ruby last year an older mare who was in foal. I was first to see the foal on the morning of her birth, what a thrill. She was very weak and we had to stand her up for the first 2 days to feed, she also had ingrowing eyelashes which had to be stitched back and then drops putting in several times a day, so I became involved. She came on rapidly and the farmer soon put them out to grass. Unfortunately only a week after this Mum got severe colic and died, the vet did all she could. What a sad time that was, so the foal was an orphan at 3 weeks. I was asked if I wanted to try and hand rear her. I had very little experience with horses but have hand reared kittens in the past. So that began 8 months of intensive feeding and looking after her. The owners called her after me "Annie"
I thought I would like to share this story and the pictures with you all as it was one of the best experiences I have ever had and the satisfaction of knowing she has survived. |
