Back in August 2017, when the sanctuary had only just been set up and we hadn’t officially opened our doors, we received a call about a stray pony who needed a home. Even though we weren’t officially accepting new residents, we couldn’t say no to this charming boy – and Harry became our very first sanctuary resident.
Harry had belonged to a group of travellers, but he had a habit of breaking out and wandering into the local village. After several escapes, his owners decided they didn’t want him back, leaving Harry without anywhere to go.
When he arrived, Harry was a little on the slender side, but to his clear delight, he was given plenty of feed and his body condition soon improved. He was also a bit wild and wary of people, not used to walking calmly or being around strangers. Our team spent time working closely with him, talking to him, and offering reassurance when he needed it. Bit by bit, they earned his trust.
Eight years on, Harry is so much a part of Goodheart that we often joke he’s part of the team. He’s much calmer now, and in all the time he’s been with us, he hasn’t shown any interest in escaping — which we like to think means he knows he’s found his forever home.
Harry is also a big hit with our visitors. He’s always the first to pop his head over the fence in the hope of a few neck scratches, and he’s greeted countless visitors during school trips, Sanctuary Tours, and our Open Days.
Harry’s story is just one example of what a safe, loving home can mean for an animal in need. He arrived uncertain and unwanted, and now spends his days surrounded by care, companionship, and people who understand him. We’re incredibly grateful to our supporters, whose generosity makes rescues like Harry’s possible and allows us to continue offering sanctuary to animals who need it most.
Harry is also one of our adoptable residents. By adopting him, you’ll be helping to fund his ongoing care, and as a thank you, we’ll send you a lovely adoption pack filled with goodies – plus email updates throughout the year, sharing all of Harry’s latest adventures at the sanctuary!
Harry also happens to be our least adopted resident, and we’d love to change that. If you’d like to support him and become part of his story, adopting Harry is a wonderful way to do it.
