WARNING - Upsetting images

The RSPCA is investigating after the emaciated body of a young pony was found dumped at the side of the road in Little Chalfont.

The skewbald filly, thought to be between six and nine months old, was found dumped in Stony Lane on Sunday (March 15). 

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RSPCA animal collection officer Rachel Edwards was called to the scene. She 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. 

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

The RSPCA and other equine welfare charities are currently struggling to cope with an ongoing horse crisis.

The RSPCA receives more than 80 calls a day, according to data from 2017, about horses and many of these relate to horses who have been dumped dead or dying. 

Despite welfare organisations’ best efforts, the RSPCA belive that the crisis shows no sign of easing, with huge pressures to find stables and funding to care for the large number of horses being taken 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.

“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.”

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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.

For more information on the RSPCA visit their website.