A pony named Dolly is now receiving veterinary care after being found walking the streets of South Los Angeles in poor health.
Animal rescue advocate Joey Tuccio began looking for Dolly after videos circulating on social media appeared to show the pony being pulled along by a man riding a bicycle. Concerned about her condition, Tuccio started searching through the South LA neighborhood to find her and get her help.
The search took him to several local businesses as he tried to follow leads about where Dolly had been seen. A rescue organization was also preparing to take the pony in when a neighbor spotted Dolly and her owner and contacted Tuccio.
Tuccio said he spoke with the owner and explained that Dolly needed proper care rather than being kept out on the streets. The pony was eventually brought in so she could be examined by veterinary professionals.
The examination revealed that Dolly was seriously ill. According to Tuccio, she was diagnosed with pneumonia and could potentially require a blood transfusion.
Dolly is now at an animal hospital receiving breathing treatments. While she has shown some improvement and has regained some of her energy, her recovery is still ongoing.
The rescue effort has also drawn attention from people interested in giving Dolly a home. According to the rescue, numerous people have contacted them about adopting her, but Dolly is expected to remain at the sanctuary rather than be placed for adoption.
For Tuccio, the situation has also highlighted the importance of speaking up when an animal appears to be in distress. He said people should not ignore situations involving animals being pulled through city streets or otherwise kept in conditions that may put their health at risk.
Dolly’s condition remains closely watched as she continues treatment. If her recovery progresses as hoped, she is expected to return to the sanctuary once she is well enough.
Her rescue has already brought attention to the challenges faced by animals found in vulnerable conditions on the streets, while the immediate focus remains on helping Dolly recover.
