Local vet, Mr Tom Miller of Stokesley Veterinary Practice, who has very kindly donated his services to the Centre since it opened in 2008, discovered a cyst in the pony’s neck dangerously close to his jugular vein.  Specialist surgery was considered to be the best course of action, and Tom arranged for Angus to be seen at the Leverhulme Equine Research Centre at Liverpool University.

After an overnight stay at the Foxes RDA Centre near the Leverhulme Centre, Angus underwent the delicate surgery under the direction of Professor Dr Derek Knottenbelt. Angus sailed though with no problems, and was so unphased by the operation that although awake, he refused to get up for an hour and a half afterwards, resulting in delays to the rest of the surgical list that day! 

Unicorn Trustee Judy Preston, who is also RDA County Chairman, accompanied Angus to Liverpool.  She said, “Angus’s nature meant that he coped with the trauma of surgery like any normal day – the vets remarked on his excellent temperament - the very reason he is such a good RDA pony. We are so very grateful to Mr Tom Miller for spotting the problem and organising Dr Knottenbelt and his team to carry out the surgery at such short notice.”

Unicorn Centre Manager Claire Pitt added, “Angus works very hard at the Centre providing riding and therapy lessons - he’s a very valuable member of our horse team! He should be back to light work this month – all his riders have been very worried about him, and are very keen to see him back to full health.” 

Angus of Mendick, an eight year old Highland, was purchased by the Unicorn Centre in September 2010 after receiving a grant from Children in Need.

To make a donation towards Angus’s live-saving surgery or for further information, contact the Unicorn Centre on 01642 576222 or see www.rdaunicorncentre.co.uk.