Two years ago I promised a deeply traumatised horse that he would always have a safe place to be.

Hero arrived carrying deep and complex trauma from a past marked by neglect, and possibly abuse. Trust does not come easily to him. In many ways, he still lives like a wild horse inside a domestic world- wary of people, unable to be caught, and not yet comfortable with human touch.

Over the past two years I’ve done everything I can to offer him stability, safety, and the freedom to simply be a horse within a calm and supportive herd environment. Slowly, in his own time, he has begun to find some peace in that.

But caring for a horse with this level of trauma comes with challenges.

Because Hero cannot yet be handled, even basic care such as hoof trimming requires a veterinarian to sedate him. Routine treatments that would normally be simple become complex and costly. On top of this, my horses are agisted, which means there are ongoing costs just to keep him safely where he is.

As a single mum working full time, the financial weight of this responsibility is becoming difficult to carry alone.

The last thing I want is for Hero to experience more disruption or uncertainty by having to leave the herd he has now bonded with. This herd is his stability, and the closest thing he has known to safety.

So I’m reaching out for support.

Our $5,000 goal will help cover the essential care Hero needs for the next few years: keeping him safely in his herd, meeting the costs of veterinary treatments, and providing specialised training to continue building trust. This support gives him the chance to heal at his own pace, and in time, to reach a point where some of these costs may lessen as he develops more trust.

The funds raised will go towards:

• Agistment costs so Hero can remain in the herd he calls home - $160/mth

• Veterinary care required for sedation during hoof trims and treatments - approximately $250

• Professional support from experienced horse trainers who specialise in traumatised horses, to help me continue building trust with him.

My hope is that, with time and the right support, Hero can continue to heal and eventually learn that humans can be safe too.

If you feel called to help, even a small donation would mean the world. And if donating isn’t possible, sharing this post is another beautiful way to support Hero.

Thank you for helping me continue giving this brave horse the safe haven he deserves.

Every contribution, no matter the size, helps keep this safe haven possible for Hero.

Thank you for taking the time to read Hero’s story and for being part of the kindness that helps horses like him find safety again.