RESCUE STORY
Strawberry the Pregnant Rescue Mini
We’re thrilled to announce that Strawberry, the 3-year-old miniature mare who came home with Rory, is now safe and receiving the full care she desperately needs at Heavenly Horses.
When we first saw her
She stood out in the herd immediately. She was staring at a tree while the other minis were eating. As soon as we went up to pet her and say hello, we could feel she was underweight, and we noticed two unusual bumps on her nose that we weren’t sure about.
She was also very pregnant, but the owner had no idea how far along she was. At only 3 years old, she was likely bred when she was just 2, far too young for such a demanding pregnancy.
Bringing her home
We prioritized her and Rory, the two in the most critical condition, and brought them home right away. Since arriving, we’ve learned the full extent of her challenges. She came in with big head disease (nutritional secondary hyperparathyroidism) caused by severe malnutrition, along with major parasitic infections.
She’s been getting dedicated care to address these issues, and we’re closely monitoring her pregnancy as we await her foal. She’s already showing more comfort and trust, and we can’t wait to see her continue to bloom alongside her little one.
A bigger picture
This rescue is part of something bigger. Strawberry and Rory came from a small herd where several other minis are also in rough shape from neglect. The rest of the herd is currently receiving hay and water, but given the severe parasitic infections that Rory and Strawberry had, the others likely have them too. We want to bring them all in soon and provide the full deworming, nutrition and rehabilitation they need to thrive.
Our plan is to go back for the rest of the herd as soon as possible, but that will require significant resources for transport, care, quarantine and ongoing support for the entire group.
HOW YOU CAN HELP
Help the minis still waiting.
If Strawberry’s story (and Rory’s) touches you, and you’re able to help with the future rescues of the remaining minis in the herd, any contribution means the world. Every dollar goes directly toward bringing them to safety and providing the care they need. No pressure at all. We know times are tough for many right now.
Watching these sweet minis start to heal reminds us why we keep going: to care for God’s creation, trust His perfect timing, and give them the second chance they deserve. We can’t wait to share updates on Strawberry, her foal and the rest of the herd.
With gratitude,
The Heavenly Horses Team
Questions? Email theheavenlyhorses@gmail.com or call (352) 488-2789.
