Animal rescue: ISPCA takes in two ponies with overgrown hooves curling up towards their legs

An investigation is ongoing after the ISPCA rescued two ponies, in extreme discomfort, yesterday in the Dunmanway region of Co Cork.

The ponies were suffering from overgrown hooves. One of the mares' hooves were so long they were curling up towards her legs.

ISPCA Inspector Lisa O’Donovan said: "This is a horrendous form of cruelty. There are months and months of growth on these hooves and these poor ponies have endured a lot of suffering. There is no excusing the condition of these animals."

Both ponies were seized under the Animal Health and Welfare Act and removed to the ISPCA Equine Rescue Centre in Mallow, Co. Cork, where they were given immediate treatment to make them more comfortable.

Inspector O’Donovan said their recovery would take some time as there was no instant fix for the overgrown hooves.

“This will be a very slow process, and the hooves will need continuous farrier work over a period of time,” Ms O’Donovan said.

“It is not possible to trim them back in one session as this could cause serious damage to the ponies’ tendons. However we are very relieved to be able to help these two young ladies along, and are hopeful that they will make a full recovery in time.”

Neither of the ponies was microchipped, and an owner has yet to be identified.

Hoof care is a vital part of equine care, and common hoof problems can be avoided by picking out hooves regularly, gently cleaning the frog and scraping off any remaining matter from the soles.

Regular trimming by a qualified farrier every six to eight weeks can help identify and correct any hoof problems your equine may encounter, and prevent serious issues.

As a charitable organisation, the ISPCA relies on public support to enable them to carry out vital work rescuing, rehabilitating and responsibly rehoming animals that desperately need help.

If you would like to support their work by making a donation, please click here.