🌼 June at the Sanctuary: A Month of Hellos and Goodbyes

June has been a deeply emotional month for all of us at Parkgate Pony Sanctuary — a time of tender farewells, new beginnings, and quiet, behind-the-scenes resilience. While we’ve been a little quieter on social media, the sanctuary has been full of movement, care, and heartfelt decisions.
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🖤 Farewell to Cobber

This month, we said goodbye to one of the most remarkable souls we’ve ever had the honour of knowing. Cobber was more than just a horse — he was a healer, a teacher, a gentle giant who carried so many of us through our journeys.

From his miraculous recovery as a yearling in the early '90s to his years helping riders build confidence through the RDA picnic rides and vaulting demos, Cobber was simply extraordinary. His presence was steady, kind, and reassuring — always the safest horse in the herd, and yet cheeky enough to challenge an experienced rider.

Cobber spent his final years in loving hands with Linda, and when internal tumours were found, we made the heartbreaking but peaceful decision to let him go. He leaves behind a legacy of love and so many memories that will stay with us always. Rest easy, Cobber. You were truly one of a kind.
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🍑 Welcome, Peach

Amidst the grief, we also opened our arms to Peach — a stunning, sweet-natured mare surrendered due to personal circumstances. Peach arrived calmly, though understandably nervous, and we’ve been gently helping her find her feet in her new home.

Her arrival is a powerful reminder of why this sanctuary exists: to offer kindness and care during life’s most difficult transitions. We’re already smitten with her and can’t wait to watch her confidence grow.
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🐓 New Feathered Friends

Alicia and Felicia, two lovely hens, joined our little flock after an emergency rehome request. They’ve settled in beautifully and are already bringing a bit of extra energy and charm to the yard. Our community really is full of all creatures great and small.
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❤️ Carrot’s Happy New Chapter

In happier news, Carrot — one of our much-loved ponies — has headed off to her perfect new loan home! She’ll now enjoy the 1-to-1 attention she thrives on, and we couldn’t be happier for her or her new family. These moments are what make the tough days worth it.
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💔 A Rescue Too Late

One of the hardest stories to share this month is that of a beautiful 11-year-old gelding we were called about too late.

When we arrived, his condition was heartbreaking — advanced sarcoids, painful tumours, and severe discomfort. We rushed him to Leahurst, but despite everyone’s best efforts, it was clear the kindest thing we could do was to let him go.

He was gentle and trusting to the end, and his passing has hit us all hard. His story reminds us just how important it is to reach out for help early. If you or someone you know is struggling to care for a horse, please don’t wait. We’re here, without judgment, ready to help however we can.
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🤍 Quiet Work Continues

Though quieter online, the sanctuary has been buzzing — with cleaning, care routines, vet visits, and the everyday rhythm of life here. Thank you for being with us, supporting us, and making this work possible.

We’ll be back soon with more updates — and in the meantime, give your animals an extra cuddle from all of us here at Parkgate.

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