Once upon a time not so long ago, a pony named Prince Charming was in desperate need of saving. He was neglected by his previous owners and close to starvation.

One day the stallion wandered into a stranger’s yard while scavenging for food and dropped to the ground before he could find a decent scrap to eat. He collapsed of weakness and struggled to keep his chin up.

Luckily a knight in shining armour noticed the pony’s cry for help and rushed to his rescue. He called the Cape of Good Hope SPCA’s Horsecare Unit to notify them of the pony’s crucial condition. When Chief Inspector Jaco Pieterse and Senior Inspector Emma Linsell arrived at the scene of their rescue mission, they found the pony weak on his knees.

It’s been a long journey with many vet visits and challenges for Prince Charming, but he has made a full recovery due to the donations of many kind civilians and the care of vets and shelter heroes. He remarkably transformed from a weary pony to a happy and healthy real-life unicorn.

After months of struggling and rehabilitation, he is back on his hoofs and ready to charm his future family with his loving personality, soft cuddles and gentle kisses.

More about the magical creature's personality

The charming fellow is confident, gentle and has a soft spot for the ladies. He’s an amazing cuddle buddy and a great listener. The sweet stallion is ready to ride into the sunset with his forever family.

"Prince Charming is very sweet, and he loves a carrot and a cuddle, or ten. He will be a wonderful and very entertaining companion for a special and understanding person, as he has so much love to share”, states the Cape of Good Hope SPCA on their Facebook page.

How to adopt or meet Prince Charming in person

  • Make an appointment at 021 700 4140 to visit the SPCA’s Horse Unit and meet the pony.
  • Fill in the online adoption enquiry here.
  • Contact Senior Inspector Emma Linsell on insp1@spca-ct.co.za.

How to be the hero in every animal’s story

Not every fairy tale has a happy ending. Sometimes the villains get away with murder. It’s up to us to fight for the rights of animals and to educate our community about responsible pet ownership. Animal abuse doesn’t only happen to domesticated animals like dogs and cats, but also to exotic and farm animals. Always be on the lookout for suspicious activities and signs of animal abuse wherever you go.

Remember that animal cruelty doesn’t only consist of physical abuse. Although this happens, the main form of animal abuse in South Africa is neglect – depriving pets of everyday necessities like fresh water, food, shelter and veterinary care.

If you suspect activities of animal abuse, it’s your responsibility to report it to the NSPCA or the Animal Anti-Cruelty League (AACL).

Report animal cruelty by calling these numbers:

  • NPSPCA: 011 907 3590
  • Animal Anti-Cruelty League: 011 435 0672