The dusty plains of Afghanistan hold countless stories of hardship, particularly at the notorious brick kilns, but they also speak of resilience and compassion. For Dr. Reshad, Nowzad's Chief Veterinarian, one particular story stands out – the tale of a brave horse named Maverick.

Back one cold winter’s day in February this year, Dr. Reshad had planned to visit a group of working animals in a remote part of Kabul where several brick kilns can be found. Loading up the mobile clinic with essential supplies for the day, the rest of the team knew not to expect Dr Reshad and the farrier back until late that night, with so many horses and donkeys to check and potentially treat. It was during this visit, whilst teaching correct hoof care to the locals, that Dr Reshad was told about a horse that had collapsed nearby and was in a dreadful state, apparently barely clinging to life.

Dr Reshad and his team have sadly been witness to several very bad cases of neglect and abuse in the past, but when Dr Reshad reached the horse, the sight before him was heartbreaking. The horse, completely emaciated and covered in painful abscesses, with a severely wounded leg lay helplessly on the ground, unable to rise and utterly resigned to his fate. It was a picture of utter despair.

Understanding that this horse needed immediate, intensive care, Dr. Reshad spent several hours patiently explaining the animal's condition and the potential for recovery to the surrounding group who had gathered around the poor horse. Finally the horse’s owner, moved by Dr. Reshad's genuine concern, agreed to entrust him to Nowzad's care.

Back at the Nowzad hospital, Maverick, as he was recently named, received round-the-clock attention. Daily cleaning of his wounds, targeted medication, and supportive therapies became the routine. Slowly, and painstakingly, Maverick began to respond. And then the impossible happened – he stood.  The team had been helping him into the hoist at the hospital each day so he could regain his confidence and strength, and it had obviously worked.

Dr. Reshad and the Nowzad team knew they couldn't return Maverick to the harsh conditions he had endured, just two weeks earlier. They have also recognised a fighting spirit in Maverick, and a spark of resilience that deserved a chance at a better life. And so, our brave young horse was purchased, and became the newest and lifelong resident at our Nowzad Donkey Sanctuary.

Dr Reshad has also come to an important agreement with Maverick's former owner: in exchange for the purchase, the owner has promised to bring his remaining horses for free checkups whenever the Nowzad mobile clinic visit the area. He has also committed to following Nowzad’s veterinary advice.

Maverick's story has been a reminder that even in the most challenging circumstances, a single act of kindness can create a ripple effect, improving the lives of both animals and their human guardians.  We can’t wait to see how Maverick gets on, making friends and settling in to our sanctuary, maybe even joining Nowzad’s new sponsorship programme there.

Please consider donating to Nowzad so we can go on supporting Maverick and all the other rescues we look after at the Sanctuary forever more.

Thank you for all that you do, and your care and compassion for these incredible animals.

Please consider making a donatation to help another donkey or horse receive the treatment they all so desperately need. Thank-you for caring.

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