By Sarah Schwager
AN ORPHANED thoroughbred foal has found a new mum, a palomino pony that has started to lactate.
Workers at Monomeith Stud Farm, along with visiting vets, were astonished when the pony, affectionately known as Gran, took its mothering role to the next level.
The eight-week-old foal, named Tramiss Regal Shot, was orphaned at the age of seven days.
Monomeith Stud Farm horse and agistment manager Caz Lacco said a friend had suggested the 20-year-old pony become his new foster mum.
Ms Lacco said they had noticed the foal suckling Gran just two weeks after they had got her but laughed it off, thinking she could not possibly be producing milk.
She said it was only after checking Gran’s feet that she decided to look under and pulled on the teat.
She said she was shocked when a squirt of milk came out.
Ms Lacco said they could have trouble with orphans but, thanks to his new mum, Tramiss Regal Shot was adjusting well, with the farm predicting the future racehorse will have a normal, healthy life.
“He thinks he’s pretty special,” she said.
“He’s a dream child. He’s my baby.”
Ms Lacco said it was great to have the two horses at the farm.
The pair will stay together for about six months, with the foal due to be put out in the paddock with the other mums and foals shortly.
Monomeith Stud Farm has about 70 to 80 horses at any one time, training racehorses, breaking in, and rehabilitating horses for clients.
Ms Lacco said she hoped Tramiss Regal Shot would be the next Makybe Diva.