
The Dutch mare Queen Unique experienced deep sorrow after losing her foal during birth. However, her owner Yvonne found a way to bring her beloved horse out of her despair.
Similar to humans, animal mothers strive for the well-being of their offspring, desiring them to live healthily in a secure and loving environment.
Tragically, complications can arise during childbirth, affecting animals just as they do humans.
In the Netherlands, Queen Unique, a Frisian horse, anticipated the birth of her first foal. Yet, as labor began, she sensed that something was amiss.
Experiencing anxiety, she paced nervously in her stall, indicating her distress.
Yvonne, her owner, stood by her side, attempting to soothe her during this trying time.
Foal Ceased Breathing
An hour later, the foal was delivered, but unfortunately, upon birth, veterinarians discovered that it was not breathing. Despite their efforts to revive the newborn, their attempts were unsuccessful.
In the aftermath, Yvonne stayed with Unique, providing comfort and support.
The grieving mare persisted in licking her deceased foal, striving to bring it back to life, but to no avail.
Eventually, they removed the deceased foal from the stall while Yvonne continued to console Unique, fully aware of her horse’s anguish. However, a ray of hope emerged.
Tip about an Orphaned Foal
A friend informed Yvonne that they were caring for an orphaned foal.
Although uncertain of Queen Unique’s potential acceptance of another foal, the introduction could bring solace to Unique amid her grief.
The orphaned foal was transported to Yvonne’s farm in a van.
Yvonne’s intention was to observe whether Unique would consider adopting the orphaned foal, as both had experienced loss — Unique losing her own foal and the orphan losing its mother.
Heartwarming Encounter
The stable staff remained hopeful as Yvonne cautiously introduced the foal to Unique, resulting in a successful initial meeting.
Unique sniffed the foal, reciprocated by the foal, even dancing a bit and displaying signs of joy at their meeting, almost as if claiming the foal as her own.
“It was an extraordinary moment. I never anticipated this outcome. We immediately knew that Queen Unique had embraced the foal, Rising Star,” Yvonne shared with The Dodo.

In just a matter of days, Unique assumed the role of a mother to the orphaned foal, exhibiting a strong sense of protection and care towards the young one. She remained constantly by the foal’s side.
The following day, they were discovered in the stall together, with Unique fiercely guarding her newly adopted foal, mirroring her every move.
Witness the mare’s touching interaction with the orphaned foal in the video below:
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