Maria

Having suffering terrible abuse and when I could no longer work, I was abandoned and left in dreadful pain. Fortunately I was brought to the SPCA Horses' Guest House, where I was treated devotedly and underwent a long process of rehabilitation. Today the pain and hard work are merely a distant memory

Maria, 8 year old horse,  was found roaming in South Tel Aviv, apparently after her owners had abused her over a long period of time. They had deprived her of food and left her to her fate when her strength gave out and she could no longer work. Maria was emaciated and in very bad condition. She was dehydrated and battered all over her body. A veterinarian specialist who was called to the Society determined that she was totally exhausted, suffering from malnutrition and wounds in her rib area and on both her sides. In the neck area she had infected open wounds and one of her legs was extremely swollen.

Maria in the place she was found, thin and exhausted
Maria in the place she was found, thin and exhausted

Maria was given intensive care for a long time and her sores were drained and disinfected. Special food with vitamin supplements brought about a consistent weight gain, and when her pain decreased, she became more relaxed and calm. Later on Maria was given deworming treatment, teeth filing and hoof trimming.

Sores and injuries all over her body
Sores and injuries all over her body

After a long process of rehabilitation, we found for Maria a farm, and today she lives happily  in good conditions (main photo).