Pony found 'starved to death' at side of Bucks road (Warning: Distressing picture)

The RSPCA is investigating after the emaciated body of a young pony was found dumped at the side of the road in Buckinghamshire at the weekend.
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The skewbald filly, thought to be between six and nine months old, was found dumped in Stony Lane, Little Chalfont, on Sunday (15 March).

RSPCA animal collection officer, Rachel Edwards, who was called to the scene, said: “An equine vet made the horrifying discovery and reported it to us right away.

“This poor young pony was extremely skinny so it would appear she has starved to death.

RSPCA logoRSPCA logo
RSPCA logo

“Unfortunately, this is a sight that is becoming all too common.”

The RSPCA says they receive more than 80 calls a day about horses, and many of these relate to horses who have been dumped dead or dying.

Despite welfare organisations’ best efforts, the crisis shows no sign of easing, and consequently it's becoming increasingly difficult to find the stables and funding to care for the large number of horses that they are having to take in.

Rachel added: “Horses are being found sick or dumped liked rubbish, many just clinging onto life or having already perished. As animal-lovers, it’s devastating to see on an almost daily basis.

The pony found in Buckinghamshire on 15 MarchThe pony found in Buckinghamshire on 15 March
The pony found in Buckinghamshire on 15 March

“We believe that the impact of the recession, over-breeding, the high and rising costs of veterinary care and hay, and the falling price of horses have all contributed to this equine crisis. And we don’t see any sign of it ending just yet.”

The pony was not microchipped so Rachel is now trying to establish who was responsible for dumping her body here and why she died.

Anyone with any information about where this pony came from or who saw any suspicious activity in this area should contact the RSPCA’s appeal line on 0300 123 8018.

To help the RSPCA continue rescuing, rehabilitating and rehoming animals in desperate need of care and investigating suspected animal cruelty please visit our website or call our donation line on 0300 123 8181.

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