Four Shetland ponies and a foal have been rescued in Dunboyne, Co. Meath.
The ISPCA responded to a report from the public and found the animals in a condition which suggested that they had not had access to adequate food for a significant period of time.
ISPCA Inspector Elaine Reynolds gave a statement on the rescue, saying
“It is very unusual to see skinny Shetlands, especially this time of year, because they were bred to survive in tough conditions and live on sparse forage. But there was nothing around to eat when we found them, so it’s no surprise they were that thin. You could see the ribs quite clearly on two of them.”
“They were so malnourished that once they were brought to the National Animal Centre they had to be introduced to food slowly, as re-feeding syndrome was a concern.”
Re-feeding syndrome can have very serious consequences. It occurs when a starved animal does not have the proper stores of fat, protein, minerals and electrolytes to handle the redistribution of these nutrients within the body and cells that naturally occurs after eating. The condition results in metabolic disorders and organ failure, and can be fatal.
According to the ISPCA, when the ponies were assessed at the NAC, three presented respiratory issues, including fluid in the lungs and an infrequent but persistent cough. They have been seen by a vet and continue to be treated and closely monitored.
Inspector Reynolds added: “They are all remarkably friendly considering the situation they were found in, and I am confident they will all make great pets once they are ready to be re-homed in coming months.”
The ISPCA intends to re-home the ponies in pairs where possible. The mare and foal are named Justine and Buster. The brown gelding is called Apollo, the skewbald mare is Boomer and the piebald mare is Starbuck.
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