We learned of the fate of a 17-year-old, downtrodden and imprisoned gelding who, after being retired by a farmer, was to be transported across borders for slaughter in Italy. We named this gentle boy Nikodemus. When he arrived at our foster home, the manager Mrs. May told me that he was very nervous, could not be calmed down and refused to eat. We immediately made inquiries and confirmed what we feared – his close friend, Nuria, with whom he had spent the last few years, was still with the cattle dealer. Of course we went back and fetched her, too. Now Nikodemus and Nuria can look forward to a happy and secure future under our protection.