A little unsure and a little nervous, both girls are quietly learning that this is a place where they are safe, seen and supported. Sometimes, it only takes one short day for everything to feel different and this feels like the start of a new path. One where, in time, they’ll be able to defy gravity, in their own way.

Settling into Life at Shores Hey Farm

Elphaba and Glinda have both settled beautifully into life at Shores Hey Farm. After spending a little longer in isolation than planned, poor Elphaba arrived with an unwelcome case of lice, both girls have now been given the all clear and are happily mixing with the rest of the herd.

Watching them begin to relax and explore their surroundings has been incredibly rewarding for our Equine Care Team.

Glinda’s Journey and a Very Special Surprise

When Glinda first arrived, she was understandably nervous and shy. Catching her and fitting a headcollar proved challenging at first, but with time, patience and gentle one-to-one care, her confidence has grown.

We’re now seeing her true personality shine through, sweet, kind-natured and quietly affectionate.

Following her veterinary health check, our team suspected Glinda might be in foal. Blood tests have since confirmed that she is over 100 days in foal, making her arrival with us even more special.

She has already formed a lovely bond with Wotsit, who was recently weaned from her own foal, Cheeto. We like to think some motherly wisdom is already being shared out in the field.

Elphaba’s Gentle, Steady Progress

Elphaba’s journey has been slower and steadier, just as it should be. She is a sensitive soul and can be quite timid when being handled, particularly around her big, beautiful ears and when having her hind feet picked out.

Our Equine Care Team are working closely with her to build confidence at her own pace. With calm handling, reassurance and consistency, Elphaba is making gentle progress every day.

Finding Her Feet at HAPPA

Despite her nerves, Elphaba is clearly enjoying life at HAPPA. She loves the extra attention and is often found being delightfully nosey around the stable block. More often than not, you’ll spot her peeking out of her stable window, keen to see what’s going on.

She’s been bathed, groomed and taken on short walks around the site, taking everything in her stride and growing more confident with each new experience.

Looking Ahead

We are incredibly proud of how far both Elphaba and Glinda have already come in such a short time. Their journeys remind us why patience, compassion and understanding sit at the heart of everything we do.

This is just the beginning for these two and we can’t wait to continue supporting them as their stories unfold.