Animal welfare officers say young pony was underweight and suffering from lice
RSPCA Cymru has launched an appeal for information after a young pony was discovered in a thin and poor condition on wasteland in Cardiff.
The pony was found tethered on Rover Way and was removed by Christine McNeil on Monday, February 23, before being taken into the charity’s care for treatment.
Animal welfare officers say the pony was significantly underweight and suffering from lice when it was discovered.
The animal was taken into possession by Shared Regulatory Services before being placed in the care of the RSPCA for veterinary attention.
Inspector McNeil, who leads the charity’s team of specialist equine officers, said the animal had been kept in unsuitable conditions.
“This young pony was in a very poor condition, was very thin and had lice,” she said.
“He has now been taken into our care for veterinary treatment after he was taken into possession by Shared Regulatory Services.
“Tethering in itself isn’t illegal, however, owners have a duty of care to meet the welfare needs of their animals. This pony had no food or water and was surrounded by rubbish and hazards.”
The RSPCA says officers are now trying to identify the pony’s owner and are asking anyone with information to come forward.
Inspector McNeil added: “We don’t know who he belongs to so we’re issuing an appeal to help with enquiries. We’d also like to thank those members of the public who have called this in and we hope this pony will be able to make a full recovery.”
Anyone with first-hand information is asked to contact the RSPCA Inspectorate Appeal Line on 0300 123 8018, quoting reference 1738409.
Further information about the charity’s work can be found on the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals website.
