Loving home needed for abandoned pony (From Watford Observer)

Loving home needed for abandoned pony

9:00am Friday 10th March 2006 in News

AN injured and malnourished pony found dumped in Bushey last month is slowly recovering from its suffering, but the RSPCA is still appealing for any information about the animal, who rescuers named Bolero.

The piebald gelding was found in a field off Bushey Hall Road on Sunday, February 12, although it is believed he could have been left there up to four days earlier.

The four-and-a-half year-old pony was suffering from laminitis, a chronic condition of the hooves, which can cause severe pain.

A representative from the RSPCA likened Bolero's pain to how a person would feel if forced to walk on tiptoe on severely infected toenails. His laminitis was so severe that his pedal bone had penetrated the sole of the foot, causing extreme pain.

Bolero was found lying in the field unable to stand as a result of the pain in his hooves. His legs had also become entangled in a blue rug that was covering him, further hampering his movement.

Bolero was underweight and his coat was severely matted and covered in burrs from the ground.

RSPCA chief inspector for Hertfordshire, Malcolm Horsman, visited Bolero with a vet who gave the pony some pain relief, before taking him to a nearby stables so treatment of his feet could begin.

He was transferred into the care of an RSPCA animal centre the following day, where his treatment is continuing.

Chief Inspector Horsman said: "In his short life, this pony has known horrendous neglect, but at least he is now being given every chance of recovery and finding a new home.

"Anyone found guilty of abandoning an animal in circumstances likely to cause suffering could face a maximum sentence of six months in prison and / or a £5,000 fine."

For more information about rehoming or to make a donation towards the ongoing treatment of Bolero and other animals in RSPCA care, telephone 0870 333 5999.

Anyone with information about Bolero's abandonment can telephone the RSPCA's helpline on 08705 555 999 and leave a message for chief inspector Horsman. All calls will be treated in confidence.