|
|
Posted by marilyn on December 25, 2003 at 23:32:15:
In Reply to: Neglect?? posted by Angela T. on October 02, 2003 at 15:12:24:
: Five or six months ago my next-door neighbors got a pony and pastured him in an overgrown field with only a pathetic lean-to as his shelter. With winter coming up, I am concerned that his shed, with no sides, won’t protect him from the occasionally below zero winds in the winter months. Also, I never see a vet or farrier come over or the owners check on him and give him attention. Even though I don’t see a water trough, I assume that they provide water because he could’ve lived this long without water. The pony isn’t thin but mostly thorny bushes and tall weeds occupy his pasture with hardly any edible nutrious grass. I do see two bales of hay in the backyard but they’ve been there for a while. When I did approach my neighbors and ask if they knew how to properly take care of a pony, they apparently didn’t want to talk about it and answered, “He’s just a little guy.” then walked away. Is this neglect or am I just overreacting? I would appreciate any advice.
It seems people get animals, and are not dedicated to taking care of them. Horses and ponies need hoof care, good hay, grain if worked, and grooming. A dedicated horseperson would do this on a daily basis for their animal, if not, they simply do not need an equine friend. I raised mine from the time they dropped out, and people are always amazed at how loving and respectful our relationship are. If you notice the pony dropping weight, or generally looking poor, call you local equine rescue, and they will investigate and remove the animal if neglect is noticed. They will not use your name...and you may save an animal who is probably going to go to a better home, if saved in time. do not feel guilty...take action if you feel this animal needs some help.