💔 The update we never wanted to write…
It’s with the heaviest of hearts that we share the story of our beloved little Brian — a journey that so many of you have followed over the past week, hoping alongside us for a different ending.
On Sunday, we noticed that Brian, our sweet Falabella colt, just wasn’t quite himself. He seemed uncomfortable and unsettled — something that immediately concerned us. We hoped it was only something mild, but sadly things began to worsen.
By Monday, the decision was made to take him to Oakham Veterinary Hospital Equine in Melton Mowbray, where he could receive urgent specialist care. The team carried out scans and tests to try and understand what was going on. We waited anxiously, hoping we’d soon be bringing him home — but Brian needed to stay under their care.
Later that evening, vets carried out a procedure to help relieve a build-up of gas. At that point, all we could do was wait, hope, and pray for positive news about our little man.
As the days went on, Brian continued to fight, but sadly his condition did not improve as we had hoped. We reached the heartbreaking point where the only options left were to say goodbye… or to try surgery.
Brian was only just 3 years old. He had his whole life ahead of him. We had only just begun the first steps of his training, and we were so excited for the journey ahead. He was the smallest, sweetest — and cheekiest — little horse, full of personality and character. Giving up on him without trying simply wasn’t an option.
So, we made the incredibly difficult decision to go ahead with surgery.
It wasn’t an easy choice, especially as a small, volunteer-run charity facing rising veterinary costs, but Brian’s life meant everything to us. The surgery itself went well, and in those first moments afterwards, we allowed ourselves to feel a sense of hope.
For a short time, it felt like Brian might pull through.
But tragically, on Easter Sunday, everything changed.
We received the devastating update that Brian had taken a turn for the worse. Despite the incredible efforts of the veterinary team, who did everything they possibly could for him, we sadly lost Brian early that afternoon.
To say we are heartbroken is an understatement.
Brian was more than just one of our animals — he was a huge character in such a tiny body. Adorable, cheeky, and full of life, he brought so much joy to everyone who met him. We had so many plans for his future, and it’s incredibly difficult to accept that we won’t get to see those come to life.
His passing has hit us all deeply, and he will be sorely missed by our team, our volunteers, and all of you who followed his journey.
We would also like to take a moment to say a truly heartfelt thank you. The kindness, support, messages, and donations we have received during this time have meant more to us than we can ever fully express. As a small charity, facing unexpected and significant veterinary costs, your support has made a real difference and helped us give Brian every possible chance.
Thank you for standing with us, for caring, and for keeping Brian in your thoughts.
Sleep tight, Brian.
Forever in our hearts. 💔🐴
RIP Brian: 05/04/2026
If you would still like to support the ongoing care of our animals here at the sanctuary, you can do so here:
www.northcotehorses.com/help
