A piebald foal found dying on a road in Essex last month (17 February) is making a good recovery according to the RSPCA.
The four-month-old foal, named Gizmo, was discovered without his mother near Ridgewell Caravan Park in Halstead (pictured right).
Vets said he was emaciated, riddled with lice, had redworm, was hypothermic and dehydrated.
The foal had been suffering from pneumonia and was so weak that he had to be carried to the horsebox on a blanket.
He was taken to Catley Cross Veterinary Clinic, put on a drip, given antibiotics and nursed around the clock.
Gizmo “is not out of the woods yet” said Catley Cross vet Carolyn Wise, “but he is really is picking up more and more each day.”
“He holds his own head up now, and is using his legs better, and was even getting very feisty during his lifting sessions yesterday which is a great sign,” she said.
“It is always touch and go when horses are this young and poorly, but we have everything crossed he is going to continue to get better now.”
A Facebook appeal to fund Gizmo’s recovery received a huge response with £19,622 raised in a week. Donations came from as far away as Canada.
RSPCA inspector Sarah Elmy said: “We just want to say a huge thank you to all the people for their amazing generosity. It is clear that Gizmo’s story has really touched people who have all taken him to their hearts.
“The RSPCA is also incredibly grateful to Catley Cross vets who have been so dedicated in the care of Gizmo – and all the other animals we bring to them. They make our job so much easier.
“At the moment Gizmo is still walking a fine line, but showing some progress. I so hope he continues to get stronger and grows into the lovely young horse we think he can.”
