Dory’s story is one of perseverance, heartbreak, and triumph. It encapsulates the challenges, lessons, and joys of working with rescue horses, particularly those who arrive in desperate need of care and healing. Among all the horses we’ve had the privilege to rescue at Tenerife Horse Rescue, Dory stands out as the most difficult yet profoundly rewarding case.
The Arrival
When Dory first arrived at our sanctuary, her condition was nothing short of dire. Emaciated to the point of frailty, her ribs jutted out starkly, and her coat was dull, patchy, and riddled with sores. Her eyes, once likely filled with life and curiosity, were sunken and filled with mistrust. Dory’s past was a grim tale of neglect and abuse, which had left her not just physically broken but emotionally shattered.
She had been found in a small, dark stable, tethered with no room to move and no access to proper food or water. Her hooves were overgrown and deformed, her teeth neglected, and her spirit crushed. It was clear she had endured years of suffering, and her survival was nothing short of miraculous.
First Steps: Building Trust
From the very beginning, it was clear that Dory’s rehabilitation would be one of the most challenging tasks we had ever undertaken. She was terrified of human interaction, flinching at the slightest movement or sound. It took weeks just to approach her without triggering her fight-or-flight response.
We started by simply being present in her space, letting her get used to the idea of humans who posed no threat. Gentle words, soft movements, and patience became our tools. Gradually, Dory began to understand that not all humans were out to hurt her. The first time she allowed a gentle touch on her muzzle was a moment of triumph—small but significant.
Addressing Physical Issues
Dory’s physical health required immediate and intensive attention. Our team of veterinarians and farriers worked tirelessly to address her numerous ailments. Correcting her overgrown hooves was a painstaking process, as it had to be done gradually to avoid causing her pain or further injury. Her teeth needed professional care to fix years of neglect, allowing her to eat without discomfort.
Nutritional rehabilitation was another hurdle. We had to introduce food slowly to avoid shocking her system. Special feeds and supplements were chosen to help her regain weight and improve her overall condition. Monitoring her diet and ensuring she received adequate hydration became a full-time job.
Emotional Rehabilitation
While Dory’s physical recovery was progressing, her emotional healing proved to be an even greater challenge. Her fear of humans was deeply ingrained, and her reactions were often unpredictable. One moment she might tolerate a hand near her, and the next, she’d bolt in panic.
We decided to pair her with a calm and friendly companion horse named Luna, who became a steadying presence in Dory’s life. Horses are social animals, and the bond between them helped Dory feel safer. Luna’s calm demeanor seemed to reassure her that the world wasn’t as frightening as she’d believed.
Gradually, we introduced basic groundwork exercises to help Dory build confidence and understand what was expected of her. Every small victory—whether it was standing calmly while being groomed or walking on a lead without hesitation—felt monumental.
Setbacks and Challenges
Dory’s journey was far from linear. There were days when she seemed to regress, refusing to eat or interact, her eyes clouded with the trauma of her past. These moments were heartbreaking and tested the resolve of everyone involved in her care.
One particularly challenging period came when Dory developed colic, a potentially life-threatening condition. Her weakened state made her more vulnerable, and it was touch-and-go for several days. Our team worked around the clock, administering medication, walking her to keep her system moving, and praying she’d pull through. Against the odds, she did.
Turning the Corner
The turning point in Dory’s story came nearly a year after her arrival. By then, she had gained weight, her coat was shiny, and her eyes had started to lose their haunted look. One day, as a volunteer was brushing her, Dory leaned into the touch, closing her eyes in apparent contentment. It was a small gesture, but it spoke volumes about how far she’d come.
From that moment, Dory began to transform in ways we’d only dared to hope. She started greeting volunteers at the fence, nickering softly. Her trust in humans grew, and she even began to show signs of playfulness, trotting around her paddock with Luna and tossing her head in delight.
Finding Her Purpose
As Dory’s confidence grew, we started exploring ways she could find a purpose within the sanctuary. She wasn’t suited for riding due to her physical history, but her gentle nature made her an ideal candidate for equine-assisted therapy sessions. Slowly, we introduced her to small groups of children and adults who visited the sanctuary to heal their own emotional wounds.
To our amazement, Dory seemed to understand the role she was being asked to play. She stood patiently as people groomed her, her calm presence offering solace. Watching her interact with others, it was clear she had found a new purpose—to be a symbol of resilience and healing.
Lessons Learned
Dory’s story taught us invaluable lessons about patience, empathy, and the incredible capacity for healing, both physical and emotional. Her journey reminded us that progress isn’t always linear, but every step forward is worth celebrating. She showed us the importance of never giving up, even when the odds seem insurmountable.
For the volunteers and staff at Tenerife Horse Rescue, Dory became more than just a rescue horse. She became a beacon of hope, proving that even the most broken spirits can heal with love, care, and determination.
A Bright Future
Today, Dory continues to thrive at the sanctuary. She has become a favorite among visitors, her story inspiring countless people to support our mission. Her days are now filled with sunshine, companionship, and the care she deserves. Watching her graze peacefully in her paddock, it’s hard to believe she’s the same horse who arrived at our gates so broken and afraid.
Dory’s story is a testament to the transformative power of rescue and rehabilitation. It’s a reminder of why we do what we do and why every effort, no matter how difficult, is worth it. She may have been the most challenging horse we’ve ever worked with, but she’s also one of the most rewarding—a true symbol of hope, resilience, and the enduring spirit of all rescue animals.
