A young pony, that was tied to an electricity pole without food, water or shelter in Clonmel, Co. Tipperary, has been seized.
The young filly was discovered in poor condition by ISPCA inspector, Alice Lacey. On closer inspection, a scar was found on her back leg, which appeared to be infected.
The inspector scanned for a microchip, however, there was no chip present. The pony was transported to a veterinary practitioner for assessment and treatment for her injuries.
‘A sad state’
Inspector Lacey said: “The young filly was in such a sad state, barely a-year-old and far too young to be shod. The ground was completely bare, she had no food, shelter or water and was eating mud to survive.”
“Her movement was so restricted, that she could only move a couple of feet either side of the lamppost.” Lacy added.
“In some cases, we see ponies that are broken and shod far too young only to be tacked up to a sulky which I suspect is what happened to this poor pony.”
She pointed out that as yearlings, their joints and ligaments are not fully developed and driving any young pony on a hard surface is putting them at risk of a serious injury. “We commonly see injuries such as swollen joints and open wounds, often caused by badly fitted tack.”
Investigation
The pony was removed before her condition “deteriorated any further”. “She is currently being treated for her injuries and is expected to make a full recovery”.
Investigations are continuing to trace an owner, according to the ISPCA.
Legal duty
The charity is reminding owners that when you take on the responsibility of any animal, you have a legal duty to provide a basic level of care and address any issues.
