Meet Malinko

Malinko's Story

We want to introduce you to the first two of the potentially ten Bulgarian horses we’re trying to bring home for Christmas.

Kalinka and Malinko

Malinko (with stripe) and Kalinka are two Karakachan Ponies, brother and sister. They are approximately 3 years old now.

Their story began in a small, dark shed where they were being kept since they were foals, to be sold for meat at the market. The shed was so cramped that they were unable to move around, which lead to severe loss of muscle mass. With Malinko, this resulted in permanent damage to his legs, which renders him unable to be ridden. At the time of rescue, both ponies were full of mange, parasites and worms. They were nervous and dejected, Malinko apt to lash out, Kalinka just deeply demoralised.

At the LIFE - Lucy Irvine Foundation Europe both were given the chance to grow into happy and healthy ponies, Kalinka’s sweet character making her a wonderfully comfortable pony to be trained for riding, with Malinko who no longer kicks or bites being content as her supportive companion, both still inseparable.

With your help, now Kalinka and Malinko are in their forever home on our horse farm in Italy, where they can develop their full potential and have a future full of safety and happiness.