Appeal after emaciated pony left for dead in field

The RSPCA said Casper was found in a "terrible state"

The RSPCA has launched an appeal after an emaciated pony was found abandoned in a field in Leicestershire.

The pony, who has been named Casper, was found by a member of the public in a field near Ambion Lane, in Sutton Cheney, on 23 July.

The three-year-old Shetland cross was "severely emaciated" and had a large open infected wound under his jaw when he was found, the RSPCA said.

Inspections revealed Casper has an unregistered microchip and the RSPCA has now asked anyone with information to get in touch.

Police officers seized Casper, who was immediately taken into the care of the RSPCA on 23 July

RSPCA chief inspector Sarah Bate said Casper was in a "terrible state" when he was found and only weighed about 165lb (75kg), which is half the weight of a healthy pony of his size.

"He has a large gaping infected wound under his jaw and he is so emaciated you can see his bones," said Ms Bate.

Casper is currently being cared for at a private boarding facility and has tested positive for strangles, a highly contagious bacterial infection.

"His prognosis at this stage is still uncertain, but we are doing all we can to help him," said Ms Bate.

"He's a sweet, friendly boy, and it's so sad to think that he has just been abandoned alone."