Bransby Horses is very sad to have to report the loss of our wonderful mule Alfred. Everyone who met this gentle giant seemed to remember him with special affection and he was adored by all the staff who cared for him. Standing at 16 hands high, this imposing chap had an incredibly kind nature and loved a scratch and a cuddle with people.

Alfred had been one of the stars of Bransby Horses’ adoption scheme but retired as a sanctuary celebrity when his advanced years seemed to be catching up with him in 2012. He had worked hard in his former life as at the Defence Animal Centre where he helped to train soldiers who worked with pack animals in remote regions of the world. Alfred retired to Bransby in 2009 when he was 17 years old.

Alfred had become increasingly arthritic in recent months, which is very common in older equines. Arthritis can be more of a problem for horses than humans as they spend almost all their life on their feet, not being able to sit down and rest their joints the way an older person might. We gave Alfred daily medication to keep him comfortable and this restored his quality of life well for a time. But sadly, during March Alfred began to show signs of being unwell and our vets spent a lot of time running tests and treating him. He suffered an episode of colic and lost his appetite, becoming withdrawn and less interested in food and friends. Blood tests showed that all was not well with Alfred’s digestive system and although a course of steroid injections helped for a short time, he soon became ill again and it was very hard to see him looking unhappy. Finally, after discussion with vets and staff, the decision was made to put Alfred to sleep so that his tired joints and organs did not cause him to suffer further discomfort or unhappiness. It was a very hard decision, but one that every animal owner has to be prepared to make when the time comes.

Alfred was an unusual and very special mule and will be greatly missed by everyone at Bransby Horses. We are proud to have looked after him here at the sanctuary and provide him with the safe, caring retirement that he deserved.

We know that Alfred was popular with many Bransby supporters and will be putting up a plaque to remember him by this summer.  Your gift will help us to provide veteran care and meet the veterinary needs of more elderly animals like Alfred to ensure that they have the best possible care in their later life too.