A Shetland pony found abandoned at the roadside last Thursday and in danger of being hurt by passing traffic has finally found refuge at the EASE animal sanctuary at Letty Green near Hertford. Seeing the scared and confused pony at Dagger Lane in Bushey, near Watford, a passer-by borrowed a horse-box from a friend and rescued him before calling EASE for help. The pony is a friendly miniature gelding of about 2 years old who appears to be in good health and to have been well cared for. No one has reported him missing though to the local police. He has been named Rusty by EASE’s youngest volunteer, 3-year-old George who was present when he was taken in, because of his chestnut colouring. It’s not yet possible to say whether Rusty has been abandoned or has escaped from his field - either way he will be well taken care of at the EASE sanctuary, together with the other ponies and pygmy goats, until his situation can be clarified. EASE is delighted to welcome two new residents to the sanctuary - Zig and Zag, two pygmy goats. This brother and sister pair were taken in by EASE as their owner had to relocate and couldn't care for them in their new home. The goats have been extremely well looked after and much loved, and eventually we will be looking for an equally loving new home for Zig and Zag. Firstly, however, we want to give them time to get used to being away from their familiar environment while we ascertain their particular natures and needs. Pygmy goats are known for their friendly nature and Zig and Zag are no exception. They are delightful creatures and are full of character, and we are sure that people will enjoy visiting them. EASE has just been granted the lease on new premises – perfect for our next step! It’s a two-acre field with three stables and electricity, which means that EASE will be able to cater for more animals – we will be able to house at our new place a few ponies and donkeys as well as a small animal unit for rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters and mice. We’ll also have a small paddock for the rabbits and guinea pigs, and even a paddock for some goats. And who knows, perhaps an enclosure for ferrets. So, as you can see, this new place - a peaceful and enclosed piece of land located on a quiet country lane at Pipers Green, between Essendon and Welwyn Garden City - will be the next big step for EASE. Renovation work is currently being undertaken to improve the condition of the stables, field shelter, fencing and parking area, and to make it safe and secure for the ponies in our care. By the spring we hope to convert one of the stables into an animal unit, and to then extend our rescue and rehoming service to include small animals.