An appeal for information has been launched after a Shetland pony - believed to have been abandoned - was found in severe pain from overgrown hooves that it had to be put to sleep to end his suffering.

RSPCA Cymru found the pony in "huge amount of discomfort and pain" with hooves that were inches long and curled in a field near Aberystwyth.

It is believed that the pony was dumped among other Shetlands in the Bronant area in early April, but did not belong to the owner of the other ponies.

County Times:

RSPCA inspector Julie Fadden said: “This poor Shetland had very overgrown hooves and must have been in a huge amount of discomfort and pain. The hooves were inches long and were curled.

"The pony was believed to have been dumped there at the beginning of April. He was then collected World Horse Welfare on Friday 12 April.

“However, sadly due to his condition it was decided by a vet that the kindest thing would be to put the pony to sleep to prevent any further suffering. Sadly his feet could not be treated as they were so far gone.”

“If anyone has any information about this pony please contact us in complete confidence on 0300 123 8018.”

If you find any animal in distress call the RSPCA on 0300 1234 999.