ELLA
“The Baby”
It may be difficult for new friends to understand why the largest mare at Rosemary Farm is called 'The Baby', but when Ella arrived, small and in dire need of medical care, all hearts embraced her as a beautiful child. Ella is a black Percheron mare, originally intended to be raised to be a plow horse. Instead, she was born with a physical issue and did not receive sufficient medical care to correct it; her front legs do not stand 'up' as they should, a condition called 'dropped pasterns'. This meant Ella could never pull a plow or do any kind of work at all, so she was dumped at auction as a baby, alone, and sold for pennies on the dollar. A kind person bought her life that day, and got Ella to Rosemary Farm, when she was just 9 months old.
Ella received evaluation for her condition, and for an intensive year, many solutions were explored with the help of a global circle of equine medical experts. Braces and supplements and other intervening care were all explored, but it was clear that the window for correction was closed and Ella's front legs were going to remain compromised. While she cannot run or move like other horses, Ella can still enjoy life, which she does to the fullest. To Ella, she is just fine; she has never known anything else, and at The Sanctuary she is given rest and supportive care to keep her safe and comfortable.
Percherons are known for their calm demeanor, and Ella is a great example of why her breed is so popular. Ella has many friends, as well as a rotation of suitors, the latest being the handsome, hunky Behr. Easy going and super friendly, Ella is considered special needs, but to everyone at Rosemary Farm, she is simply special for who she is.
Sponsor or Staydopt Ella today and help us provide whatever care she may need as she grows up here at Rosemary Farm!