One-eyed pony thriving in Norfolk after joint effort by charities
Pirate Pete, the piebald cob, was found fly-grazing in Kent last winter
A pony rescued last winter with a severely damaged eye is now thriving under the care of World Horse Welfare in Norfolk.
Pirate Pete, the piebald cob, was found fly-grazing in Gravesend, Kent, with an ulcerated eye that required removal.
Collaboration between the RSPCA and World Horse Welfare rescued the pony and provided extensive veterinary care.
Rebecca Carter of World Horse Welfare discovered Pirate Pete, prompting a joint effort with the RSPCA and local authorities to bring him to safety.
Rebecca explained, "I could see that his eye was really sore – they’re incredibly painful and the sooner they’re checked, the better the chances of recovery, or at least minimising the damage."
The pony was transported to Lingfield Equine Vets, where despite efforts to save it, his damaged eye was removed due to the delay in treatment, estimated to be around a month.
RSPCA Head Vet for Equines, Roxane Kirton, described the extensive treatment Pirate Pete received, including enucleation, treatment for strangles, and chondroid removal.
Soon after recovery, Pirate Pete relocated to World Horse Welfare’s Hall Farm Rescue and Rehoming Centre in Norfolk.
Senior groom, Megan Jarvis, has helped Pirate Pete adapt to life with one eye.
She proudly shared, “I’ve been amazed at how quickly he progressed once I got him into a routine of regular handling. He’s such a quick learner and very brave.”
Although no owner claimed Pirate Pete, leaving an abandonment notice was left in the field, he now has a secure future with World Horse Welfare and awaits rehoming.