Sometimes the most incredible friendships are the ones we don’t plan for. Il Tintoretto—affectionately known as “Tinto”—is living proof that rescue horses have extraordinary hearts and an uncanny ability to change lives.
This remarkable gelding was recently named World Horse Welfare’s Rehomed Horse of the Year 2018, but his journey to this honor began over a decade earlier when he arrived at the charity in 2005 as part of a group of neglected horses desperately needing care.
From Rescue to Rehab: A New Beginning
After arriving at World Horse Welfare, Tinto underwent comprehensive rehabilitation at their Belwade Farm base in Aberdeenshire. Just six weeks after being backed, he was ready for his next chapter—meeting the person who would become his lifelong partner.
Fiona Bell wasn’t originally looking to adopt a rescue horse. “I was considering buying a horse, but my friend had rehomed from World Horse Welfare so persuaded me to consider doing the same,” she explains. That fateful visit to Belwade Farm changed everything.
“We went to look at two other horses, and while I was there I looked up to see Tinto standing at the top of a hill, almost as if he was saying ‘Look at me!'” Fiona recalls with obvious emotion. It was love at first sight.
Fourteen Years of Partnership and Sport
Over the next 14 years, Tinto proved to be an exceptional all-rounder. The dynamic duo competed together across multiple disciplines, enjoying everything from showjumping and cross-country to dressage and leisurely beach rides. But their real bond was tested when life threw them an unexpected curveball.
“We’ve had an amazing amount of fun together,” Fiona says proudly. “Tinto has given me more than any horse I’ve ever owned.”
A Horse’s Intuition During Difficult Times
In 2014, Fiona became seriously ill. Her doctors advised her she could continue riding but should avoid jumping due to the risk of serious injury. It was during this vulnerable period that Tinto’s true character shone through.
“We continued to have lessons and he instinctively seemed to know he had to take special care of me during that time,” Fiona explains, her voice filled with gratitude. This isn’t uncommon among horses—they’re incredibly perceptive animals that can sense our emotional and physical state. But Tinto’s attentiveness went above and beyond.
“It seemed fitting that the first event we took part in after my recovery was the Royal Highland Show doing a demonstration for World Horse Welfare.”
Well-Deserved Recognition
Now aged 23, Tinto has earned his retirement and will spend his golden years in the home he’s always known with Fiona. When she entered him into the charity’s “best friend” category, she hoped to highlight what he’d meant to her—especially during her illness. The judges agreed.
Not only did judge DJ Sara Cox select Tinto as the category winner, but he went on to win the overall Horse of the Year award. “I was delighted and amazed that judge DJ Sara Cox chose him, and then to find out he was the overall winner was incredible,” Fiona says. “We were so thrilled!”
Sara Cox herself spoke about what made Tinto’s story so special: “Tinto has found a loving home and in return has given so much back to his rehomer over the years, from competing at shows to being there for her as she battled illness. I love how it’s now time, after giving so much love, for Tinto to relax and enjoy his retirement. A beautiful bond and an everlasting friendship that deserves to be celebrated!”
The Bigger Picture: Why Horse Rescue Matters
Tinto’s story perfectly encapsulates what makes horse rescue and rehoming so rewarding. These aren’t just animals being saved—they’re gaining the opportunity to become treasured family members and reliable partners. In return, they offer unconditional loyalty, trust, and an intuitive understanding of their human companions.
As Sara Cox noted, Tinto’s journey demonstrates “how special and rewarding” it can be to rehome a horse. Whether you’re an experienced competitor or simply looking for a faithful companion, rescue horses have so much to offer.
If Tinto’s story has inspired you to consider horse adoption, organizations like World Horse Welfare provide comprehensive rehabilitation and careful matching between horses and their new owners—ensuring the best possible outcomes for both.
What’s your rescue horse story? We’d love to hear about the bond you share with your equine partner in the comments below!