A pony named Niko was found abandoned and trapped between two gates on a footpath in Owston Ferry, North Lincolnshire, prompting the RSPCA to urge pet owners struggling with animal care to seek help rather than abandon their animals. The pony was in poor condition—underweight, frightened, and with a matted coat—but has since been examined by a vet and is now receiving care. The RSPCA highlighted a worrying rise in animal abandonment cases, with reports increasing from 19,727 to 24,270 in the first ten months of 2024, and warned that the situation may worsen during the colder months.

The charity emphasized that abandoning animals is illegal under the Animal Welfare Act 2006, carrying potential prison sentences and fines. Olivia Farrar, an RSPCA animal rescue officer, expressed concern about the growing number of vulnerable animals and urged anyone with information about Niko’s abandonment to come forward. The RSPCA remains prepared for a potential surge in abandonment reports this winter and continues to advocate for responsible pet ownership and support for struggling owners.