We all know the strange situations horses can find themselves in – but there can’t be many as odd as this one.
This pony was found completely stuck in a large tractor tyre, which was lying on its side in a field in Stoke-on-Trent.
Members of the public spotted that the tyre had an unexpected inhabitant and called the RSPCA, which sent animal rescue officer Nicola Riley to the scene.
“When Nicola arrived, the pony was trapped and unable to free himself,” an RSPCA spokesperson said. “His coat was extremely matted and dirty, and although he was breathing, he was clearly distressed.”
People who live in the area helped by lifting the tyre while Ms Riley tried to free the pony, thought to be an adult and about 14hh, in stages. The spokesperson told H&H he was exhausted and did not need to be sedated.
“It was a very delicate rescue,” Ms Riley said. “The poor pony was completely wedged against the tyre and understandably very scared and uncomfortable.
(Image credit: creditUnknown)
“We had to take a staggered approach to free him safely; first easing out his front feet, then carefully working his shoulder free before finally releasing his neck and front end. Thankfully, everyone worked really well together and we managed to get him out without causing any injury.”
Horse & Hound Newsletter
Never miss out on the latest happenings in the equestrian world
The pony was “a little wobbly” once he was freed, and stood with his back legs still in the tyre but then managed to step out of it. Ms Riley stayed with him and his companion for an hour afterwards to ensure he had recovered.
(Image credit: creditUnknown)
“He soon returned to grazing and walking around the field again,” she said. “But this could have ended very differently, so I’m really grateful to the local residents who stopped to help.”
The tyre was removed from the field and the spokesperson said no other welfare concerns were noted; the owner has been given advice and paperwork, and the ponies will be monitored as appropriate.
Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now
Eleanor is an experienced journalist who spent over eight years working for local and national newspapers before joining H&H as news editor in March 2016. Passionate about equine welfare and exposing the truth, Eleanor has reported on all aspects of the industry, from Brexit to anti-bullying campaigns, and from dressage rules to mules. Her sport of choice is showjumping, in which she competes her own horses, and she also enjoys reporting at local jumping shows through to international championships.
