The wild horses of the Delta Danube are all that’s left of their population. Majestically, they roam across the plains of Europe. Although the effect of their rising population on the surrounding ecosystem is yet to be fully ascertained, they face a greater threat –Humans. Sadly, they have become a prime target for meat, and now, they are on the brink of extinction.
To say the least, the ill-treatment locals of Letea give is simply not humane.
One of these horses was spotted, with a rather cruel restraint.
Ovidiu Rosu, a veterinarian with the Four Paws team spotted an incapacitated wild horse with cruel restraints on both front legs. These wild restraints are common practices by the locals to prevent horses from running quickly to safety.
This prevents the horses from running away easily, forcing them to do a sort of hop, which slows them down drastically. Having the horses much slower means that they’re easier to catch and hunt for their meat. As you might well imagine, it is super painful for the horse. Ovidiu could see it in the eyes and knew something had to be done.
Armed with a tranquilizer gun
Ovidiu releases two shots of mild tranquilizer sedatives to keep it relaxed and put it to sleep. Primarily for the horse’s safety, so it doesn’t attempt to run –hurting itself and Ovidiu in the process. The shots were quick and painless, nothing compared to the gruesome damage caused by the restraint.
When the horse is down, they cover its eyes.
The cover helps keep the horse calm and relaxed while Ovidiu does the needful (remove the restraint). Like most animals on tranquilizers, covering the horse’s eyes stop them from panicking and keep them at peace. Dramatically, a funny-looking bearded horse perceived to be a good friend watches over his distressed buddy while Ovidiu gets to work.
This dutiful vet sets his mind to the task.
With a pair of pliers, the Four Paws vet begins working on the wires that attach the chains around the horse’s ankles. As shown below, the horse was severely restricted by these chains, and it’s a good thing it was tranquilized, otherwise, Ovidiu would have one heck of a time removing these fetters of iron.
The Bearded horse expresses gratitude to Ovidiu.
It’s clear that the horse in distress has good friends (or acquaintances) out on the delta, as these horses remain close the whole time Four Paws is at work. They stand by with curiosity, inspecting Ovidiu as he works on their acquaintance.
They even stick around to make sure the horse can get up.
The job isn’t done until they know that this horse is going to be fine, and that means even helping it up to its hooves.
Now tagged for them to track, this horse experiences a surge of relief.
In horse language, it’s quite certain it is thanking the compassionate team who went out of their way to free this poor horse from the fangs of death. Not only that, but Ovidiu and the Four Paws team get their heartfelt thanks from the stud.
Watch the full video below to see this harrowing rescue for yourself!
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