DUSTIN, a steel grey pony mule gelding of about 5 years old on arrival, and Hoffman, a dark bay pony mule yearling stallion, had been wandering the roads for maybe up to six weeks.

We had received many callouts from all different areas but no-one had managed to catch them until, by chance, they turned up in a neighbour’s yard, where they were cornered, eventually caught and led by foot up to the Sanctuary.

Ballymote Gardai were informed and an advertisement was placed on North West Radio but no owner came forward.

 

 

Both animals were very afraid and defensive and it took a couple of years to gain their trust fully.

HOFFMAN had a severe injury to his off hind leg above the fetlock. It cleaned up and appeared to heal but left noticeable and prominent scar tissue. Two years later it began to fester, requiring veterinary intervention. A great deal of pus and necrotic skin was removed and again the wound healed, though still badly scarred.

 

Hoffman was castrated on 30th April 2003. He is now quiet and easily handled. Dustin is more reserved than Hoffman. They are great friends with Gwillan and Copper.