News

Horse saved by ‘blood brother’ at Moy Farm Veterinary Centre

A horse with an extremely rare blood disease almost bled to death - until his stable mate saved his life. Benjy, a black and white miniature cob who suffers from haemophilia, was brought back from the brink of death by a blood transfusion given by the horse he shares a stable with - Star.

Anne Sargeant, who runs the Joseph Animal Sanctuary on Midgeland Road in Marton, said: “It’s a miracle, he should be dead.

“The vet told us in all his 30 years he has never come across this disease in a horse before. He was literally dying and his best mate saved him by giving him six pints of his own blood.”

Benjy was rescued by the sanctuary just over a year ago after reportedly suffering a lifetime of cruelty. The life-threatening trouble began for Benjy two weeks before Easter when he went to the vet for an operation. After the surgery the horse started to bleed and did not stop for several days.

The bleeding horse was taken to Moy Farm Veterinary Centre in Out Rawcliffe, where he was treated by vet Mark Lingard. After tests revealed the horse had the potentially fatal illness, Mark stayed up with Benjy for two nights without sleep in a desperate attempt to save his life.

Mrs Sargeant added: “That man deserves an OBE - he’s absolutely wonderful. The absolute devotion of the vet and his staff was tremendous.”

Benjy was taken off the critical list on Easter Sunday. Mrs Sargeant said: “He’s bright-eyed and bushy-tailed now. He’s playing with Star and Star won’t leave him. They’re like blood brothers.

“Sadly we don’t know how long he will be with us as he cannot have any more operations, but now he will have the life he deserves.”

Story courtesy of The Blackpool Gazette.

Footnote

Anne Sargeant organised a fund raising event at Hampton Road Social Club on Thursday 15th April for her charity which was much enjoyed by all and raised much needed funds.