More on KentOnline
More on KentOnline
A foal which suffered horrific burns in an arson attack is continuing to make a recovery.
Last month vets said three-month-old colt Phoenix was still fighting for his life after arsonists attacked a stable in Ash near West Kingsdown.
Sadly a pony died in the attack but Phoenix escaped the blaze and was given a fighting chance thanks to emergency care at Lingfield Equine Vets in Surrey.
He has since been moved to Redwings Horse Sanctuary in Hapton, Norfolk, where vets are now hoping he can continue to recover from full-body burns.
The injured foal has to be fully bandaged to prevent infection - with new dressing needed every two days - which has prompted vets to get creative with colourful bandages.
So far Phoenix has donned superman, ladybird and rainbow designs, prompting an outpouring of support from supporters on social media.
Pam Coulson commented on Facebook: "Bless him he's a very special boy looks great in his bandages.
"Bless you for your care, speedy wishes Phoenix.xxx"
Joan Mccue added: "He might not be able to fly but little Phoenix is truly a super hero xxx."
Phoenix's long road to recovery began when he was discovered in a roadside by a passerby in the aftermath of the barbaric attack.
He was later rushed to Redwings Horse Sanctury in Hapton, Norfolk, where vets have introduced Phoenix to his 'foster mum' Mildred, a black and white mare who has started caring for the injured horse.
Nicola Knight, communications manager at Redwings, said: "It’s very early days still but clinically Phoenix seems to be much stronger and is an absolute sweetheart, so our vet team are completely smitten!
"He is getting on well with his new foster mum Mildred and has been having some turnout in the field each day which he really seems to enjoy."
Phoenix still needs round-the-clock care, including daily blood tests, and vets are considering skin grafts to save his charred body.
Redwings Horse Sanctuary said it has been flooded with donations and gifts since Phoenix's horrific story came to light last month.
Nicola added: "We’ve been inundated with donations, cards and presents and the public have really taken him to their hearts; so we’d like to say a huge thank you to everyone who has been in touch, it really means such a lot to us."
Commenting on Phoenix's case last month, a spokesperson for Redwings said that the horse hospital had "never seen anything this bad".
She added: "It's about as bad as it can get for a foal before you start thinking about its quality of life."
Kent Police say the investigation remains ongoing but no arrests have been made.
Anyone with information can call 01622 604100 quoting reference 46/140289/21.
They can also contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or complete the online form here.
