Lucky horse gets second chance

GEORGE NEWS - A registered former racehorse that lived a life of luxury in PE, has somehow ended up emaciated and tick-ridden in New Dawn Park in George.

However, Connie [Coniston Gold] got a new lease on life when her life crossed paths with SPCA field inspector Vanessa Lucas and SPCA inspector and horse fanatic Andrea Auerbach.

Upon examination they found that Connie was microchipped, which enabled them to establish that she is registered and had run in about 20 races between 2013 and 2014.

According to Auerbach they received a call about an emaciated horse standing in New Dawn Park late on Tuesday evening, 28 January. Lucas went out to see the horse that evening and the next morning Auerbach went back with her.

"I gave her one look and told Vanessa that this horse couldn't stay there," said Auerbach.

Straightaway they confiscated the horse from the property.

When Connie arrived at the SPCA she was tick-ridden, awfully malnourished and had several lacerations across her body caused by severe rain rot. At this stage there is no sign of disease and Connie is being treated for her injuries.

"We don't know how she got here and what she has been through, but that is all part of her past. Connie has to be the skinniest horse I've ever seen and yet she has such a sweet nature," said Auerbach.

At this stage Connie is regularly bathed with special shampoo to get rid of the rain rot. She's on antibiotics and her wounds are treated regularly.

Connie will be available for adoption in the near future, but for now she needs lucerne, teff, any quick-soaking beet, high-fibre horse food and plenty of love.

"Feeding a thoroughbred correctly can be extremely tricky. Their dietary needs are much more complicated than other horses and it could be difficult and costly to keep them in good condition. Connie's previous owner obviously didn't know what or how to feed her," said Auerbach.

The SPCA is also in need of fly repellent for Connie as the flies are a big nuisance for the equine at this stage.

Please contact the SPCA if you are willing to donate towards Connie's recovery.

Literally skin and bone.