Five Shetland ponies suffered injuries after being savaged in an attack believed to have been carried out by a dog in a field in Shropshire.

Several were so badly savaged they may suffer permanent disability.

Four mares and a foal suffered bite and puncture wounds during the attack in a field on the outskirts of at West Felton, near Oswestry.

Owner Amanda Woof, who with her daughter breeds Shetland ponies as a hobby, said she was horrified at the extent of the injuries.

The matter has been reported to police who are appealing for information.

It is believed the horses were attacked between 9.30am on Saturday and 9.30am Sunday.

Ms Woof said that on first seeing one of the injured horses she thought it had been caught on fencing but then on seeing the other injured ponies she realised it was something more serious.

“The vet confirmed they were puncture wounds almost certainly caused by a dog, possibly more than one,” she added.

She said one of the mares was not seriously hurt and was still in the field but the others had been removed to assist their recovery.

The foal, which is only 23 inches high, has a severely damaged eye but is expected to make a full recovery.

Ms Woof added: “The mother of the foal has bite marks on her neck and a front leg was severely ripped which might leave her lame if she recovers.”

Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact Oswestry police.