Rescued in one of the most heartbreaking conditions by the Animal Welfare Society, Rafiqi is now physically healed, his spirit restored and is finally surrounded by people who adore him for the precious being he has always been.
Cape Town, South Africa (24 July 2026) – When working horse Rafiqi was confiscated by the Animal Welfare Society of SA (AWS), he was in one of the worst conditions imaginable.
According to his rescuers, the poor horse had long been forced to carry heavy loads in extreme heat while struggling to stay on his feet. By the time they had reached him, he was nothing more than skin and bones.
Rafiqi was depressed, weak, and had simply given up.
“His body was exhausted, his spirit was broken, and he had a large, severely infected wound on the side of his face that required intensive treatment,” the AWS team said.
The horse was taken to the AWS hospital, where the veterinary team immediately got to work, starting him on medication. Rafiqi received daily wound care, pain relief, good nutrition, and endless love and patience.
“Day by day, his wounds began to heal, his body regained strength, and slowly the sparkle returned to his eyes.”
Slowly but surely, the once frightened, broken pony they first met transformed into one of the most gentle, affectionate, and remarkable ponies AWS has ever had the privilege of caring for.
“Today, Rafiqi has started the next chapter of his life. He has gone to an incredible new home where he will never know neglect again. Instead, he will be surrounded by love, kindness, proper care, and the freedom every animal deserves.”
Reaffirming its firm stance against animal cruelty, the AWS Inspectorate Department confirmed that action has been taken against the owner as part of an ongoing investigation. The animal welfare organisation is committed to ensuring that those responsible are held accountable while giving animals like Rafiqi the chance to live the life they deserve.
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This is what compassion looks like, and this is what supporters’ donations make possible – it helps turn stories of suffering into stories of hope.
To support the Animal Welfare Society of SA, call 021 692 2626 or donate here.
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