Pastures new for Gerry and Lottie

Gerry and Lottie were transported to our Sidmouth sanctuary after Tettenhall Horse Sanctuary, based in the West Midlands, announced its closure earlier this year.

We were one of seven animal organisations who rallied round to rehome Tettenhall’s long-eared residents, after the family-owned organisation made the difficult decision to close.

On their arrival at our Sidmouth sanctuary, Gerry, eight, and four-year-old Lottie were admitted to our New Arrivals Unit where they underwent admission medicals, including initial bloodwork, hoof trimming and dental examinations.

Beci Brown, one of our New Arrivals Unit Grooms, says: “When Lottie and Gerry first arrived, they settled in very quickly. Both were very friendly and keen to explore their new environment.

“They were gradually introduced to a group of five other donkeys and they all got along really well from the start – particularly Lottie, who seemed to take a liking to a donkey called Jenny. Although Lottie and Gerry remain very bonded, all seven donkeys now spend their time together as a close-knit group.”

Close veterinary care

Our Veterinary team has also been monitoring their progress closely to ensure any health needs are met. These visits also help build trust and positive associations with both donkeys.

Veterinary Surgeon Jamie Forrest is ‘pleased’ with pair’s progress so far, and will continue to monitor them until they are ready to make the move to one of our farms. 

He says: “It is really encouraging to see the great progress Gerry and Lottie have made so far.

“Lottie had previously suffered from laminitis, which was found to have caused some rotation of her pedal bone during her pre-admission checks, but she is now doing well and has been seen by our farriers who have worked to improve the balance of her feet. She’s now comfortable without any need for pain relief, which is a great sign.

“Gerry is doing well health-wise. He doesn’t have any specific medical concerns but like Lottie, he’s overweight and will benefit from continued weight management.

“Looking ahead, rehoming may potentially be an option, but at this stage the priority is on their wellbeing and weight management. 

“For Lottie, we need to be confident that she remains comfortable and doesn’t experience any further laminitis flare-ups before rehoming would be an option.”

Ensuring a positive welfare outcome

Gerry and Lottie were two of 20 equines rehomed by various animal organisations after Tettenhall Horse Sanctuary closed at the end of May.

Hannah Bryer, our Head of Welfare, explains: “Our priority was to ensure positive welfare outcomes for the equines in Tettenhall Horse Sanctuary’s care and to identify sustainable, long-term solutions that would continue to meet their needs.”

Verity Wilson, daughter of Billy Wilson, founder of Tettenhall Horse Sanctuary, says: “Hannah and her team have been so kind and supportive in helping me make these very difficult decisions.

“This was a true team effort. Across our welfare, veterinary and transport teams, and with the incredible support of fellow equine charities, we ensured that every animal found the best possible outcome.” 

Hannah adds: “This operation is a powerful reminder of what we can achieve when we work together. 

“The closure of Tettenhall Horse Sanctuary highlights the real and significant challenges currently facing charities across the UK. Equine welfare organisations are battling rising costs, limited resources and increasing demand for support.”

The two donkeys have settled in well and are thriving among their new companions.

“Lottie and Gerry are a very inquisitive pair of donkeys,” adds Beci Brown. “They enjoy being groomed and love being around people and spending quality time with them – they’ll always come over to say ‘hello’ when they see you.”