*Warning distressing images*
A PONY has been rescued by an animal charity after it was discovered tethered to an electricity pile in Co. Tipperary.
The Irish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty for Animals (ISPCA) seized the young horse from Clonmel in Tipperary, where it had been left without water, food or shelter.
The filly was in bad condition and was later found to have a gash on its hind leg, which appeared to be infected.
ISPCA Inspector Alice Lacey scanned for a microchip without success, before the pony was transported to a veterinary practitioner for assessment and treatment for her injuries.
Fortunately, she's expected to make a full recovery.
"The young filly was in such a sad state, barely a year old and far too young to be shod," said Inspector Lacey.
"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.
"That’s no life for any animal and not completely unacceptable.
The ISPCA seized a young pony that was tethered to an electricity pole without food, water or shelter in #Tipperary recently. The ground was completely bare, she had no food, shelter or water and was eating mud to survive. Read more https://t.co/Ba79lhAfxK#EndCruelty pic.twitter.com/f6bLqJwPPc
— ISPCA (@ISPCA1) February 27, 2020
"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.
"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. We would like to remind 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.
"Thankfully we were able to remove this pony before her condition deteriorated any further. She is currently being treated for her injuries and is expected to make a full recovery".
Investigations are still underway to try and track down the owner of the poor pony, and the ISPCA are appealing for anyone with any information to contact them.
You can contact the ISPCA National Animal Cruelty Helpline on 1890 515 515, report online or email [email protected] if you suspect cruelty, abuse or neglect to an animal.
