Uderzo’s name might not be in the dictionary, but to us, it means "little warrior." Abandoned with a severe leg injury, Uderzo faced overwhelming odds. His front legs were deformed from neglect, and euthanasia seemed inevitable. But at Equitom, we believe in second chances.

The story of Uderzo

Abandoned

Uderzo was found in deplorable conditions, abandoned to his fate and with a serious injury. He suffered a fracture to the pipe bone, but received no care or treatment for it. For months he continued to walk with it, gradually causing the leg to grow back together completely deformed. Moreover, during this unfortunate recovery, he relied entirely on his front left leg for almost a year, which also suffered severe damage from overuse.

Both front legs were deformed; it became almost impossible for him to move. Such an injury is worrying enough, but without medical care it seemed certain death for the little pony. Fortunately, Uderzo was rescued by the association SPA and ended up here with us at Equitom, a specialized equine clinic.

Because of the seriousness of the situation, euthanasia was initially considered for Uderzo. However, at Equitom, we do not simply choose that option—whenever there is an opportunity to save a horse, we seize it with both hands. As a result, Equitom is known as a clinic where seriously injured horses can be given a last chance.

Uderzo himself also gave us reason to persist: he showed a tremendous will to live and made it clear to us that he would not give up right away. Along with a glimmer of hope and Uderzo’s determination, our team took on the challenge of surgery.

3, 2, 1,... Every hand counts!

Preparation for surgery

Uderzo’s surgery was carefully planned using 3D CT scans. The right leg (R) is in the most critical condition, showing signs of overuse, including a callus formation, as well as improper healing.

The left leg (L) primarily shows damage due to overuse.

First surgery

Tension ran high during the first, highly complex surgery on the right leg: the callus was removed, the misaligned bone was carefully sawed and reattached correctly using plates and screws. It was a painstaking procedure, but Uderzo remained resilient throughout.

Second surgery

Following a successful first surgery, Uderzo faced a period of recovery, but the battle was far from over.

His left leg, which had borne the brunt of the strain for so long, had become severely crooked. This required a second, equally intensive surgery. And once again, Uderzo demonstrated his remarkable strenght and resilience.

Recovery

Uderzo must have endured immense pain, but through it all, he kept his head held high—always! During his recovery, a deep bond formed between him and the Equitom team. His resilience and gentle spirit touched everyone who cared for him. Without a doubt, he won the hearts of many.

After a long recovery, he’s finally able to frolic in the pasture once more, doing what Shetland ponies do best—being playful and full of spirit! Thanks to the compassion of those who cared for him, the dedication of his rescuers, and the expertise of our Equitom team, Uderzo’s future is looking bright again.

Now, he can move freely and without pain. Uderzo really proved himself to be a true warrior, never losing fait in a better life despite the odds seeming to be against him. His story is a testament to how care and perseverance can turn even the most hopeless situations around. Uderzo has definitely earned his well-deserved spot in the pasture full of green grass.

Uderzo's journey

Saved by La SPA

Société Protectrice des Animaux

La SPA (Société Protectrice des Animaux) is a French association that works tirelessly to protect animals in need. The organization provides shelter and care for animals that have been abused, neglected or in danger, with the goal of giving them a better future. La SPA takes in all kinds of animals, from dogs and cats to farm animals, and offers them a safe and caring environment.

The association works hard to find new, loving homes for the animals. It also focusses on awareness and education about animal welfare and the need for responsible adoption. Thanks to the dedication of its volunteers, La SPA remains an important pillar of support for all animals in need of protection.