Fire crews save Shetland pony from cattle grid in Powys

Mid and West Wales Fire and rescue were called out to Llangattock after a 21-year-old Shetland pony called Teifi got caught in a cattle grid.

At 7.32am on Tuesday, March 5, the Crickhowell, Talgarth and Pontardawe crews were called to the scene and required help from both a vet and to use specialised equipment to save him.

To avoid Teifi becoming distressed, the vet sedated him and crews proceeded to utilise road traffic collision and animal rescue equipment to release him from the cattle grid. 

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Following the incident, Teifi’s owner, Beth Watkins said: “I’m incredibly grateful to the Fire and Rescue Service crews for their help in rescuing Teifi.  They meticulously planned his release and showed great care towards him throughout the incident.

“I’m pleased to say that Teifi is recovering well and he’s since become quite the local celebrity.”

It took several hours to get Teifi free and crews left the scene at 11.11am.

Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service have said that Teifi got into trouble because gates were not shut by careless walkers.

A spokesperson for the service said: “Teifi was able to reach the cattle grid due to a gate being left open by walkers on a right of way through the farm that he lives on.

“The Countryside Code urges all those who use the countryside, coast, parks and waterways to always leave gates and property as they are found and to follow instructions on signs.  Farmers and landowners may close gates to keep animals in or leave them open to give access to food and water.”

More information on the Countryside Code can be found here.