Happy ending for neglected pony (From Western Telegraph)

Happy ending for neglected pony

A pony named Polly owes her life to the family who rescued her from certain death at the hands of a neglectful owner.

Her skeletal, lice-infested appearance shocked the Caddeys when they responded to an advert offering her for sale.

In Tim Caddeys words: She looked like an animal you would expect to see in a drought and famine stricken African country."

Her owner had turned the 23-year-old Welsh Section B pony into a field for the winter where she had been neglected but was demanding £500 for her.

The Caddeys didnt argue.

We couldnt leave her there, she would have withered away and died, says Tim.

Her ribcage was clearly visible and she had all sorts of health problems."

His vet was astounded she had survived the journey from Pencoed to her new home near Milford Haven.

That was five months ago and Polly, who won a prize at the inaugural West Wales Show Jumping Club show, has metamorphosed into every childs dream pony.

Tims daughter, 11-year-old Megan, has played a key role in nursing her back to health and there was barely a dry eye at the Mallards Reach Equestrian Centre, Camrose, when the pair were awarded fourth prize in the 13.2hh competition.

When we look at the pictures taken of Polly five months ago you just wouldnt believe she was the same pony," said Tim, the landlord of the Three Crowns, Hubberston.

She had been neglected and mistreated when she was crying out to be loved and wanted."