Brave decision by Mamre boy saves abused horse 'Forest'

A young boy from Mamre has been praised for a courageous decision that saved the life of his horse, Forest, after the animal was allegedly abused and left starving.

The boy contacted the Cape of Good Hope SPCA after discovering that Forest had been ridden without permission, beaten and neglected while stabled on another property. Inspectors from the SPCA’s horse care unit responded the same day.

Found emaciated and injured

SPCA inspectors found Forest in severe distress, showing signs of prolonged malnutrition. His ribs, spine and hip bones were clearly visible, and he had open wounds on his back consistent with pressure injuries and trauma.

Forest was immediately placed under veterinary care and entered a specialised rehabilitation programme.

A community that loves its horses

SPCA spokesperson Belinda Abrahams said horses hold deep cultural significance in Mamre, especially for young people.

“Having a horse is a source of pride and identity in that community,” she said. “This wasn’t just a child giving up an animal; he gave up something that represented his status and belonging, and he did it out of love.”

The boy had initially left Forest in the care of someone he trusted. When he later learned the horse was being mistreated and feared it would be taken back, he made the difficult choice to surrender Forest to the SPCA to ensure his safety.

Healing alongside another survivor

During rehabilitation, Forest was paired with Snowflake, an older pony who had also been rescued in an emaciated and wounded state. Abrahams said the companionship played a key role in both animals’ recovery.

“Horses are herd animals. They recognise safety in one another. Being together helped them heal, quietly and without pressure,” she explained.

A costly but vital intervention

Last year alone, the SPCA spent about R1.5 million running its horse care unit, assisting more than 100 equines. Rehabilitation can cost around R14,000 per horse, with some cases far exceeding that amount.

“Sadly, not all horses can be saved,” Abrahams said, noting that several animals had to be euthanised due to the severity of their conditions.

New beginnings for Forest and Snowflake

Forest has since been fully rehabilitated and rehomed with an experienced family, while Snowflake is set to move to a new home in Piketberg.

Abrahams said the boy who raised the alarm may be able to visit Forest in future, should he wish to.

“It matters that Forest is thriving now. It validates that heartbreaking but brave decision,” she said.

For more information, listen to Abrahams using the audio player below: