Often, when contemplating the ideal animal companion in crises, my thoughts immediately gravitate towards dogs, renowned for their instinct to aid humans and other animals in distress.

Yet, the tale I’m about to recount involves an unlikely equine hero whose actions were nothing short of miraculous.

This event unfolded in a quaint barn located in the pastoral stretches of Dorset, England, involving a majestic Clydesdale named Eleanor. Eleanor, aged 16, suffered unexpectedly from acute equine colic, a condition known for causing severe abdominal distress.

Eleanor’s suffering intensified to the point where she could no longer stand, collapsing within her enclosure—a scenario perilous for equines as prolonged periods lying down can lead to reperfusion injury, a critical condition where blood flow fails to reach certain body parts, causing potential organ failure.

In a frantic effort, her caretakers, Oliver Martingale and his partner Sarah Jennings, alongside four farmhands, attempted to hoist Eleanor using a makeshift lift crafted from a tractor and heavy-duty lifting straps. Despite their efforts, the enormous Clydesdale’s weight proved too much for the contraption.

As the situation grew dire, Oliver and Sarah faced the heart-wrenching decision of possibly having to euthanize Eleanor if she remained grounded too long, risking increased heart rate and blood pressure to fatal levels.

Last minute rescue

With only 20 minutes left before making this grim choice, Sarah remembered that Eleanor’s stablemate, a robust 11-year-old stallion named Arthur, needed his daily exercise. She opened Arthur’s stall, but instead of heading out, he dashed to Eleanor’s side.

Sensing her distress, Arthur leaned over the stable barrier, gently biting at Eleanor’s neck and mane, seemingly coaxing her to rise.

In a breathtaking moment, Eleanor managed to roll over and stagger to her feet. Arthur had accomplished what six humans could not.

“We were astounded,” Sarah recounted to an animal news site. “He not only nudged her upright, but once she was partially lifted, we encouraged her, and she shakily stood. We quickly escorted her outside, ensuring she didn’t collapse again.”

Eleanor gradually recovered, and her bond with Arthur, her companion of four years, grew even stronger. It was a poignant reminder of the deep connections that animals can forge, akin to the profound bonds humans share with loved ones.

The remarkable rescue was captured and shared widely, offering a testament to the empathetic and responsive nature of animals in moments of crisis.

Such stories underscore the emotional capacities of animals and serve as a compelling example for those who doubt that animals experience deep feelings. By sharing these moments, we help foster greater appreciation and empathy towards the animal kingdom.