By Hannah Deadman-Arnst
They say big things come in small packages, and at Rushy Marsh Farm, one tiny-but-mighty pony proves it every day.
Located in Wellington, Rushy Marsh Farm is more than a private jumper barn. They believe in helping as many animals as possible, so they have a dedicated sanctuary for rescues, including 19-year-old Thumbelina Hippopotamus (“Hippo”). The white Shetland pony may have a few chronic health challenges, but they’re no match for her big personality.
“There’s always someone new that we want to help out,” says Felipe Buitrago, general manager at Rushy Marsh. “I think that makes us a little bit different. We’re a little bit of both: a sanctuary for these animals, and a barn that competes.”
Special Care for a Special Horse
About three years ago, Hippo started developing chronic equine asthma and arthritis; common for aging horses. But Buitrago—a longtime Wellington resident who managed a polo barn before joining Rushy Marsh—ensures she is well cared for, from daily routines like nebulization therapy and a well-ventilated stall to regular veterinary checkups.
Hippo also receives a special feeding regimen: soaked hay. Soaking the hay in water helps reduces dust, sand, and other allergens that could make Hippo’s respiratory condition worse.
An advocate for senior animal husbandry, Buitrago says having a deep understanding of an animal’s behavior is key to caring for them well.
“The least we could do is take care of them when they’re retired and old,” he says. “I think it’s our duty to make sure they live a long, whole life in the best way possible.”
Keeping On
Despite her health challenges, Hippo is thriving. And she’s the boss of the farm, according to Buitrago. She grazes every day in Rushy Marsh’s small animal paddock, along with two miniature donkeys and Oliver the pig.
“Even though she has issues that could potentially affect her later on, they’re being managed,” he says. “She’s still sassy. If you want to put a blanket on her when it’s cold outside, she’ll try to nibble at you, like ‘hey, what are you doing?’ You see this tiny pony, and she has so much attitude, it’s beautiful.”
Hippo’s feisty personality has had a big impact, especially for others with chronic illness. Her story even helped inspire the children’s book, “Tinkerbell and the Magic of Rushy Marsh Farm.” Penned by Rushy Marsh owner Monica McCourt, the book reminds readers that they can dream big and succeed no matter what life throws at them.
“Every animal deserves to be treated with the utmost respect,” Buitrago shares. “There’s a certain level of love and gratitude that comes from an animal; they can’t speak to you, but [you know] they love you just by the way they look at you.”
To learn more about Rushy Marsh Farm, visit their Facebook page.
