Many readers will remember back in August, the premises at Epsom RDA were broken into. Although nothing was stolen two of their ponies, Marigold and Buffy, were attacked both receiving multiple injuries. One pony suffered nine puncture wounds, and the other pony suffered two puncture wounds and a deep slash to her neck. Both were obviously traumatised by what they experienced that night.
A considerable amount of after care was put into the ponies recovery. With offers of assistance and donations flooding in from across the country. Volunteers and helpers of the RDA centre all pulled together and provided round the clock care for the ponies as well as making sure that there was a team member on site at all times. The ponies received the best care possible, and were making slow recoveries.
Sadly we have to report that our beloved pony Buffy has been put to sleep. Despite a considerable amount of careful and patient care Buffy remained traumatised. Unfortunately this has meant Buffy could never be ridden again, and after discussions with the Trustees, the vets and RDA National it was agreed that it was in the best interest of Buffy’s welfare for her to be put to sleep.
“In her 15 years at Epsom RDA Buffy gave countless riders the opportunity to experience the joy of riding, and specialised in looking after our smaller, younger riders. She found a special place in the heart of our volunteers for her patient and kind nature. Buffy will be much missed by all at Epsom RDA”
A decision not taken lightly, but with Buff’s well being a priority. Lengthy consideration was given to alternative outcomes, such as finding her a retirement home. However, Buffy’s home for 15 years had been Epsom RDA and it was felt that the stress of travelling and being somewhere unknown to her would be too stressful for a sensitive pony in an already anxious state, with complex ongoing medical needs to consider as well.
“Buffy has been an absolute star whilst working for Epsom RDA and it has been an unbelievably hard decision to make, but it was agreed the best thing we could for this sweet pony was to allow her to end her days peacefully in the place she has given so much to and where for so many years she was so happy.”
Epsom RDA provides over 3000 riding lessons for 350 disabled adults and children, which is all made possible by our 200 volunteers.” Follow their Facebook page and website (www.epsomrda.org.uk) to get updates on all the fundraising events the centre holds. The centre also has a ‘Just Giving’ https://www.justgiving.com/epsomrdapage), with all donations big or small gratefully received and put towards the care of their ponies and upkeep of the centre
