Tiny Ponies Buddy and Bauble Make Remarkable Recovery
By Animals Correspondent
Two tiny ponies rescued just days before Christmas are now thriving — thanks to the tireless care of the team at World Horse Welfare’s Penny Farm near Blackpool.
Buddy, a chestnut colt, and Bauble, a piebald, were discovered in December in a dangerous state — underweight, infested with lice, and struggling to survive in a completely unsuitable environment.
Field Officer Ryan Rouse knew he had to act fast.
“I could see straight away that their situation was critical,” he said. “I returned the next day with a vet, the RSPCA, and a colleague, and we got them straight to Penny Farm for the urgent care they needed.”
Upon arrival, Buddy was so weak he could barely stand, scoring just 0.5 out of 5 for body condition, while Bauble scored 1 out of 5.
But the dedicated Penny Farm team refused to give up.
“For weeks, we had to lift Buddy back onto his feet every morning,” said Hayley Penrice, Deputy Centre Manager. “Once he could stand, he could eat — and that gave us hope. Both ponies were determined, and so were we.”
Over the festive season, Buddy and Bauble received round-the-clock care and regular veterinary treatment. Gradually, Buddy grew strong enough to stand on his own — a milestone that brought tears of joy to the team.
“It was an incredibly special moment when Buddy finally got himself up,” added Hayley. “They’re not just recovering — they’ve become firm favourites with visitors and are now enjoying short daily trips out into the field.”
The ponies can be seen by the public during half-term visits to Penny Farm, open 11am–3pm on Wednesdays and weekends. They are part of nearly 60 horses and ponies currently undergoing rehabilitation at the centre, each on their own road to recovery.
Buddy and Bauble’s story is a heartwarming reminder that with determination, love, and expert care, even the smallest lives can achieve miracles.
For more information or to book a visit, go to worldhorsewelfare.org/visit-us.
