Dougal is a big, young Thoroughbred who came into our care after an injury and hoof abscess left him needing ongoing rehabilitation that his owner was no longer financially able to provide.

He has now spent more than a year with Equine Welfare NZ, giving him the time he needed to heal without being rushed.

During his assessment, Dougal was also found to have a significant respiratory noise — commonly described as being “in the wind”. This means the eventing career a big, athletic horse like Dougal might otherwise have been suited to isn't going to be the right future for him.

But that certainly doesn't mean he doesn't have plenty to offer.

As his rehabilitation progresses, Dougal will begin being brought carefully back into work. When he's ready, we'll be looking for the perfect home where he can enjoy a quieter life as a happy hacker.