Billy and Patch were rescued by Redwings, a prominent horse welfare charity in the UK, after concerns were raised about their welfare. Upon arrival, both horses were found to be suffering from severe health issues, including liver disease, maggot-infested wounds, and worms. Despite efforts to treat Billy, his condition deteriorated, leading to the difficult decision to euthanize him for his welfare.

Patch, who is younger at about seven months, also exhibited signs of liver disease and had maggots in his feet. However, he is responding positively to treatment and shows signs of improvement, although he is not yet fully out of danger. The charity remains hopeful for his recovery.

Redwings has issued a warning about the risks of purchasing horses online without seeing them first, highlighting that Billy and Patch were bought under such circumstances. Their previous owner, who has become ill, cooperated with the charity to ensure the horses received the care they needed.