An animal refuge in the foothills of the Angus Glens has launched a special appeal to mark the first birthday of one of its best-loved residents.
Orphaned Falabella horse Dayzee was just 11 weeks old when she was brought to Mountains Animal Sanctuary at Glen Ogil and, according to manager Pam Taylor, was “so poorly” due to defects sustained at birth that vets didn’t “give her much of a chance at all.”
But thanks to round-the-clock care from staff, Dayzee pulled through and is now “a proper little madam” who loves her food and being petted by visitors.
The sanctuary is now calling on members of the public to help ensure the same care can be provided to horses in similar circumstances via the aptly named Dayzee Appeal.
Ms Taylor said, “Basically, we are interested in anything anyone can do for us. We would welcome donations from members of the public, but we are also interested in getting people to adopt horses that way they can come up and visit regularly too.
“We’re on the lookout for volunteers as well and anyone who might know where a horse could be re-homed. There are some horses who just cannot be re-homed and will live out the rest of their days with us, but we would like to get the numbers of permanent residents down to 100.
“There is no reason why some horses cannot go to a good home, especially if someone is able to give them one on one attention.”
The sanctuary has had a turbulent year following the death of its beloved founder Alan Fraser in October.FinancesFrom a practical point of view, the centre’s finances are also in a period of “limbo” until details of Mr Fraser’s estate can be finalised making it increasingly challenging to care for more than 160 horses, donkeys and ponies.
Caring for horses, especially those who have been cruelly treated or neglected, is expensive. Vet bills for Mountains last year totalled £33,000, along with food bills of £15,000 and £20,000 for farrier care.
The sanctuary is reliant on support from donations, sponsorships, legacies and the generosity of individuals.
Mountains is also hopeful people may be willing to give up some of their own time and head girl Anita Udale, who started work at the sanctuary five years ago, said, “We’ve found ourselves in a difficult financial position and need to continue to care for our horses in the best possible way and we desperately need volunteers.
“To care for the number of horses we have is time intensive but so rewarding. With certain horses needing specialist food and regular care plans there’s always lots to do.
“It’s fun too all of the horses have different personalities and habits and certainly keep you on your toes.”For more information visit www.mountainsanimalsanctuary.org.uk