Written by Tara McGovern – Assistant Communications, Resource and Development – Cape of Good Hope SPCA
Photographs courtesy of Cape of Good Hope SPCA and Keith Lotz Photography
When the Cape of Good Hope SPCA in Grassy Park, Cape Town, received a horrifying report of a young horse being beaten by children, nobody could predict that not only would he survive against all odds, but he’d unite a whole community.
A community calls for help
It was the end of a long week when, on Friday the 6th of April, 2018, just before 5PM, a tip-off came in from Pelican Park: a horse was being cruelly beaten by a group of children and help was urgently needed.
The SPCA Cape of Good Hope Horse Care Unit rushed out, fearing deep down that by the time they got there, both horse and children could be gone, as is usually the case.
Imagine our surprise when they were met by a group of distressed community members so upset that they’d kept track of the children’s movements and could direct us to their exact location – where, to our horror, the terrified six-month-old brown colt was still being pelted with rocks and bottles and beaten with a piece of red pipe.
Safe sanctuary
The moment we were spotted, the children scattered; our horse-care team was torn between pursuing the guilty parties and rushing to the colt’s side. But the horse was in a terrible state, so there was no other option but to direct our attention towards him.
The youngster was in a state of absolute exhaustion; he was weak, afraid and at the end of his strength. We carefully helped him into our horsebox to take him to the SPCA premises in Grassy Park, where he could at last be given safe sanctuary.
As bad as it had looked from afar, a closer inspection revealed that he was in a far worse state than we could have imagined. Not only was the poor colt malnourished and severely emaciated, but he was covered extensively in whip marks, had a broken rib and numerous bumps and bruises.
We’ve coined a phrase for the times when we see cases that both break our hearts and get our blood boiling – this case had us “Ancry” for sure.
In good hands
Barrister, as we named him, showed himself to be a gentle, good-natured horse and he responded well to his treatment. Despite his ordeal and ill-treatment at the hands of humans, he showed no hatred, although he flinched when we raised a hand to stroke him. However, with plenty of love, he slowly but surely learnt that human hands can deliver kindness too!
We thank everyone for their support, which gives us the privilege of not only being able to teach Barrister this lesson, but also for the joy of being able to feed him, stable him, treat his wounds and ensure that he’ll never know a beating ever again.
We also extend our thanks to the Pelican Park community, for both reporting the incident and for their part in facilitating the rescue.
Thank you to the incredible Fall family for bringing these three beautiful souls into your fold. We know that they’ll be smothered with unconditional love and carrots galore from now until forever.
FALLING FOR SCOUT
By Telana Mason of Namaste Horses, where Scout now resides
Scout, as he was renamed, was lucky enough to be adopted by the Fall family just a week after his dramatic rescue. And he wasn’t alone – Freya, a chestnut mare, and Pickles, the quirky little goat, were adopted with him. The three have joined the other animals at Namaste Horses (read more about Namaste Horses here http://www.happytailsmagazine.co.za/happy-tales/namaste-a-happy-home-for-horses-and-other-homeless-souls/)
When Scout arrived at the SPCA Cape of Good Hope, he was in an appalling state. Because of the extent of his malnourishment and injuries, he struggled to gain weight and build strength. And while there’s a long road to recovery ahead, Scout is doing very well.
Team effort
It’s a team effort, with farrier Kevin Dodd and vet Dr Arnold Mahne from Baker & McVeigh Equine Hospital closely monitoring him; we’re doing our best by him and are sure that it won’t be long before this sweet, gentle horse is healthy and happy.
Carla Fall, his new human mommy, showers him in love and horsey treats, building his confidence and trust. We cannot wait to see him grow into the amazing little guy we know he will become.
Even though he’s been so badly hurt by humans, he holds no grudges against them and absolutely loves hugs and cuddles. His broken ribs make it difficult to groom and bath him as he’s very sensitive, so we take things very slowly with him.
His best friend is Malakai, a six-month-old orphaned colt; together, they spend their days grazing and entertaining themselves with their little goat friend, Pickles.
The Fall family
Carla Fall, Scout’s new mom, says she chose him because he’d a bad start and really deserved a happy ending. She recalls: “When we arrived at SPCA he was hanging out with a donkey and not with other foals of his age. He was so sad, but now he’s the happiest foal you could ever meet. He’s still a bit thin but we’ll get there. Living with Pickles and Malakai, he has the happy ending he deserves.
Derelyn Fall, Carla’s mom, adds: “After reading and hearing Scout’s terrible story, I couldn’t believe what a gentle soul he was when we met him. He just melts your heart! We just had to have him as part of our family and it’s amazing to be part of his journey where we can help him heal and grow.”
The family doesn’t know if Scout can be ridden, but, regardless, they love him to bits and will do whatever it takes to make him happy.
