Shetland ponies found in a field with overgrown hooves

THE RSPCA is looking for the owners of two Shetland ponies who were found in a Dorset field with overgrown hooves.

RSPCA officers were called to land in Wimborne on Friday March 11 by officers from World Horse Welfare.

One of the RSPCA officers, Inspector Graham Hammond, said: ‘World Horse Welfare officers contacted us with concerns about a small roan-coloured Shetland pony.

“He had extremely long untrimmed hooves which we suspect hadn’t been seen by a farrier in years. The pony was struggling to walk and was clearly in pain.

RSPCA and World Horse Welfare officers managed to nab the pony and called a vet and farrier to see him.

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The pony – a gelding male, an adult Shetland under 10, roan in color and not microchipped – was taken into the care of the RSPCA.

Rocky grew up with clogs

Graham said: “We took the pony, who was named Rocky, for urgent veterinary care. He had x-rays, pain relief and an emergency farrier trim.

“Now I would like to know who owns this little pony and who allowed him to get into such a state.”

A number of horses were removed from the field and cared for by the RSPCA, including Rocky and another Shetland pony.

The second pony – a mature bay gelding, no more than 10 years old – was found to be overweight and his hooves had to be trimmed by the farrier.

He was named Apollo and also receives care from veterinarians.

Graham also appeals to find out who Apollo belongs to.

Echo of Bournemouth: ApolloApollo

He said: “Anyone who knows who this pony belongs to or is responsible for its care, please contact the RSPCA hotline on 0300 123 8018.”

The ponies will remain in the custody of the RSPCA while investigations are ongoing. If they are unclaimed, they will be made available for rehoming once the vet and farrier give them a clean bill of health.

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