Leading international horse charity World Horse Welfare was alerted to the plight of a pony on 25th February 2009 by a concerned member of the public. Field Officer Ted Barnes investigated and found a 12.2hh six year old tri coloured mare tethered on Rickford Common, Burdenshott Road, Guildford.
A man appeared before Guildford Magistrates Court on Thursday 25th June where he was also ordered to pay costs of £2,500 and carry out 100 hours of community service.
The pony’s right eye was badly injured and oozing green pus so Ted contacted RSPCA Inspector Rob Jackson and veterinary surgeon Debbie Watson who examined the pony and discovered that her right eyelid was completely missing. The pony was very fearful of people, clearly distressed and in terrible pain.
She was immediately taken away for treatment where vets found her eye was badly ulcerated possibly as a result of a penetrative injury. They estimated that the pony had been allowed to suffer for at least 21 days and recommended that her right eye be completely removed.
The operation, which cost £2,300, was funded by the RSPCA and after a period of recovery she was taken to World Horse Welfare Glenda Spooner Farm in Somerset where staff named her ‘Panda’.
“This was one of the most serious physical injuries I have ever seen on a horse and I hope I never see suffering like this again.
“Panda’s future is secure as she was signed over to us prior to the case going to court and she is now starting to respond to the care provided by World Horse Welfare staff. Hopefully it won’t be long before we can find her a caring new home.”
Ted Barnes, World Horse Welfare Field Officer
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