Celebrate Our July Birthday Stars!
Here at Remus Horse Sanctuary, every animal has their own unique story – and when their birthdays come around, we love to make them feel extra special. This July, several of our wonderful residents are celebrating another year of life, healing, and happiness, thanks to your continued kindness.
In this blog, we’re shining a spotlight on our birthday boys and girls – from cheeky ponies to gentle donkeys – each with their own personality and journey to share. You’ll find links to sponsor them, send them a treat, or even come and say hello at one of our upcoming events!
Meet Our July Birthday Stars
Willow – 1 July – Happy 18th Birthday!
Willow was born right here at the Sanctuary to her mum Rowan, who arrived traumatised and underweight after a difficult past. Without any of us knowing, Rowan gave birth alone one night – a dangerous delivery due to her size and young age. Thankfully, both mum and foal survived, and the pair have shared a strong, unbreakable bond ever since. You’ll rarely see them apart in the field!
Send Willow a birthday treat | Sponsor Willow
Minstral – 3 July – Happy 32nd Birthday!
Minstral was found dumped in a field in Braintree, with a severely swollen stomach from overbreeding and a torn Linea Alba causing a serious rupture. We feared we might not have long with her – but over ten years later, this brave and beautiful mare is still going strong. Due to her past, she prefers her own space, so she lives in a paddock with neighbours nearby for gentle company. In 2016, after a ruptured eye had to be removed, she bounced back with incredible resilience, thanks to expert veterinary care and lots of love from our team.
Send Minstral a birthday treat | Sponsor Minstral
Jakie – 5 July – Happy 8th Birthday!
Jakie’s early life was filled with fear – she was dumped behind a church, completely feral, and terrified of people. With tragic reports of other dumped youngsters dying on the roads, we were determined to rescue her. A specialist team had to dart her, but thankfully she was safely brought to Remus and has since transformed into a friendly, confident pony. She now enjoys life with her friends Heidi, Blax and Dora.
Send Jakie a birthday treat | Sponsor Jakie
Mopsey – 6 July – Happy 38th Birthday!
Mopsey arrived at Remus alongside her aunt Damson and cousin April – a close-knit family who had spent their entire lives together. When their elderly owner could no longer care for them, she asked us to keep them together, and we were more than happy to welcome them. Though nervous at first, Mopsey has now settled in beautifully and is enjoying her golden years with her lifelong companions.
Send Mopsey a birthday treat | Sponsor Mopsey
Dolly 2 – 18 July – Happy 30th Birthday!
Dolly 2 spent 22 years on a tethering chain with little food, water or companionship. When she arrived at Remus, she couldn’t believe her newfound freedom – and she embraced it with joy. Despite a permanent limp from an old foot injury, Dolly settled quickly and is now known for her love of routine (and banging on the gate if dinner’s late!).
Send Dolly 2 a birthday treat | Sponsor Dolly 2
Hovis – 24 July – Happy 17th Birthday!
Hovis had a difficult start before coming to Remus. After being bullied by the horse he lived with, his situation became so concerning it was reported to the RSPCA. When his owners moved to Wales, the same horse attacked Hovis again during transport, and the people due to take them in refused him. Thankfully, we were able to step in and offer him a safe home. Now, he lives happily with his donkey friends and is especially close to Wesley and Spencer – his best pals and constant companions.
Send Hovis a birthday treat | Sponsor Hovis
Laddie – 31 July – Happy 27th Birthday!
Laddie came from a background of hardship, born and bred by Irish Travellers and passed from place to place before being rescued from abuse. Arriving traumatised and aggressive, he slowly learned to trust again. After losing his companion Bella, we introduced him to the donkey herd – and after some gentle encouragement, he began to play and form strong bonds. Now Laddie enjoys the company of many donkey friends, with Harvey being his best pal.
Help Make Their Birthday Extra Special
Your support means the world to our animals – not just on their birthdays, but every single day. Whether you choose to sponsor one of our residents, send them a little gift, or visit us in person this summer, you’re helping us continue our vital work in giving these animals a safe, loving home for life.
Don’t forget to check out our Events Page to see when you can next visit the Sanctuary, meet the animals in person, and see your support in action. From everyone at Remus – thank you, and happy birthday to our beautiful residents!
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