Nero joined us on November 7, 2023, and quickly captured the hearts of all who met him. With his curious and mischievous nature, he built a devoted fan club on our YouTube channel, and by March 2024, he became a permanent resident here at Greenbank Farm.

Known affectionately as our "Rainbow Boy," Nero's arrival was marked by a stunning rainbow in the sky over the yard, a fitting symbol for this special boy. At just five years old, Nero was effectively on 'death row' having been diagnosed with severe bony changes in his hock. His relatively new owners had no options left for him, did not have the funds available to aid his recovery, and because he had no 'value' as a traditional working horse, the only option they thought they had was euthanasia. We were alerted to the situation by his original owners who were devastated by the news but they too were not in a position to help. Fortunately, with our knowledge of the Friesian horse and belief that with careful management, each horse can still live a good life, even if they cannot work in the traditional sense, we have been able to offer him sanctuary at Greenbank Farm.

Nero's journey hasn't been without challenges. Initial medications to manage his discomfort were not successful so surgical intervention was needed. After undergoing surgery to use his hock joint in February 2024, Nero is now living a pain-free life with the help of additional medication, and happily spends his days in the fields with his fellow sanctuary boys building fitness and strength while his joint continues to heal.

With an active mind and playful spirit, Nero was previously branded as 'dangerous'. In our experience, he has simply been curious and intelligent, and loves nothing more than to explore his surroundings. He's often found chewing on things he shouldn't, such as ropes, buckets, and jackets, proving he's as mischievous as a toddler! He also has a special fondness for water, particularly when it comes to playing with the hose while his turnout water is being topped up. One of his best friends is Mr. JB, our mini-Shetland, who he has great fun teasing and chasing whenever they are together. His other more mature friend is twenty-year-old, Oebe, who we like to think of as his mentor and disciplinarian. He manages Nero's youthful exuberance in a firm but fair manner and helps educate him on the need to be respectful of his elders within the herd.

Now that Nero's comfort levels have improved, he has begun groundwork training to help him develop manners and respect with people as well as helping him build muscles to support his self-carriage and overall wellness. This also provides him with a healthy outlet for his boundless energy. His fans around the world can rest assured that they'll continue to be entertained by Nero's antics on our YouTube channel and social media for many years to come. He's now a beloved member of our Sanctuary family with a home here for life.