Pony ‘facing certain death’ winched 80ft to safety
A pony has been winched to safety from “certain death” after being found at the bottom of an 80ft cliff.
The coloured pony was missing for around a week before his rescue on 18 May.
He was found trapped on the shingle bed at the bottom of the cliffs at Gwbert, near Cardigan Golf Club, Wales.
The operation took 13 RSPCA officers, including two rope rescue teams, cliff rescue specialists and a boat team.
“This pony was in a hopeless situation and facing certain death,” said RSPCA animal welfare officer Andrew Harris.
“Undoubtedly, this was one of the largest and most challenging rescues I have ever experienced — and it was amazing to be involved in such a happy ending.
“The RSPCA devoted significant, but necessary, resources to this complex rescue, which demonstrated the breadth of skills across our inspectorate, and the length we will go to in keeping animals safe.”
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He added the two rope teams and the boat crew were “absolutely integral” to the safe recovery of the pony.
The pony was sedated before being winched up the 80ft cliff face to safety.
“Fortunately — though initially very weak — the pony was safe and well after the ordeal,” he added.
“After a successful veterinary inspection, the pony seemed very happy back alongside the rest of the herd. We are delighted this operation was a success.”
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Lucy is an experienced news journalist, reporter and presenter. Since joining the Horse & Hound team in 2015, Lucy has reported from major global sporting events including the Tokyo Paralympic Games and multiple European Championships, as well as Badminton, Burghley and London, to name a few. She has covered current affairs and sports news across the full spectrum of equestrian disciplines and racing, as well as human and equine welfare, industry news and court cases.