Orphaned Foal "Roman" Finds Love and a Second Chance at CHPA

Photo Credit: Supplied by CHPA - Cindy and Roman before tragedy struck.

An orphaned foal named Roman found an unlikely saviour and adoptive mommy in “Amazing”, a rescued mare who had recently given birth herself.

Cape Town, South Africa (05 February 2025) – After giving birth to a bouncing baby boy in the early hours of Friday, 20 September 2024, all seemed perfect in the world of mommy horse Cindy and her foal at the Cart Horse Protection Association (CHPA) stables.

However, tragedy struck just days later. On Monday, 23 September, Cindy was rushed to Blue Cross Veterinary Hospital, colicking severely.

“Despite hours of intensive treatment and care, her condition worsened. We made the heartbreaking decision to send Cindy over the Rainbow Bridge. Her loss was a devastating blow, but our commitment to her newborn foal gave us strength,” CHPA shared.

Cindy’s orphaned foal was taken to the association’s Recovery and Rehabilitation Centre (R&R), with the hope and determination to give him every chance at survival.

“Drawing from our past experience with orphaned Grace, we knew the road ahead would be challenging but not impossible.”

A Miracle Named Amazing

Cindy’s foal, now named Roman, was introduced to a remarkable mare called Amazing. Amazing, who was rescued from abuse while pregnant and had given birth to Roxy at the R&R, did not hesitate to embrace Roman as her own!

This incredible mare allowed Roman to suckle, providing him with nourishment and a mother’s love. Roman, a resilient little boy, found a second chance at life thanks to Amazing’s boundless compassion.

Roman’s Challenges and Triumphs

Even with all this love and care, Roman encountered additional challenges. He was admitted to Blue Cross after exhibiting disorientation and unusual behaviour on 27 December.

While the cause of his condition remained unknown, the CHPA’s team kept a close eye on him, making sure he received the best care possible in order to recover.

Despite the health scare, Roman’s resilience shone through, and his owner’s compassionate decision to relinquish ownership ensures he’ll never know the hardships of a cart-horse.

Instead, he will grow up under the loving care of his groom and the people who have come to cherish him.

“After all he has endured, breaking that bond would be unimaginable. What a wonderful way to start 2025.

“Stories like Roman’s are why CHPA do what we do. Equine welfare is not just about saving lives; it’s about giving animals a second chance, showing them love, and helping them heal.”