Saying goodbye to Stargazer was incredibly hard for everyone at the Sanctuary. Her light will always be with us. Today, we open our hearts to the next animal who needs us. Listed at the auction as a 5-year-old with severely overgrown feet, this sweet little pony is on his way to the Sanctuary to begin a new chapter.

First Things First: Health Check

Our transporter arrived, and Dr. Metcalf was ready to examine him. His first priority: X-rays of all his hooves to see what damage had been done and how best to rehabilitate him. He also received an ultrasound of his chest to check for pneumonia or fluid, and bloodwork to assess overall health.

A Long Time Between Trims

Cosmo’s paperwork shows he came from South Dakota. It’s been over a year since his hooves were trimmed—our horses usually get them done every six weeks! X-rays revealed a small amount of rotation in his front feet and minor bone distortion in his back right foot. After a week to settle in, he will get his first trim at the Sanctuary. We expect dramatic improvement and are very hopeful!

Health Concerns

Cosmo has some nasal discharge, a little cough, and minor abscesses in his lungs—early signs of pneumonia. We’ve started him on antibiotics and are monitoring his temperature twice daily. Sale barns can expose animals to all kinds of challenges, so extra care is essential.

A Name to Shine By

We’ve named him Cosmo, in honor of Orion and Stargazer, continuing the starry theme that celebrates all the animals who have touched our hearts at the Sanctuary.

Cosmo is finally safe, warm, and surrounded by care. With love, treatment, and time, we are hopeful that he will thrive and walk comfortably again. Stay tuned for updates as this little star of a pony settles into his new life.