The ISPCA is appealing for information after an abandoned donkey was found in Feenagh, Co Limerick.

The donkey was rescued with severe overgrown hooves.

ISPCA Inspector David Walsh responded to a call made to the ISPCA National Animal Cruelty Helpline - and discovered a grey, middle-aged male donkey running loose in a laneway through a farm.

The donkey's hooves were severely overgrown which would have been extremely uncomfortable, the charity says.

Image: ISPCA

He was immediately removed and brought to the Equine Rescue Centre in Mallow and examined by a vet.

"He was bright and alert and in good general health, but his mobility was impeded by his overgrown hooves which were trimmed to alleviate his suffering", the ISPCA says.

The donkey was not microchipped and investigations are continuing to locate an owner.

ISPCA Inspector Walsh said: "This kind of neglect is easily preventable with regular farrier treatment, and there is no excuse to let a donkey get into this state. This neglect would have taken some time, and would have been extremely uncomfortable for him."

Image: ISPCA

The charity says hoof care is an important part of responsible donkey ownership - and just like horses and ponies, donkeys need their hooves trimmed every six to ten weeks.

The donkey has since been transferred to the Donkey Sanctuary for rehabilitation and he is expected to make a full recovery.

He will be available for re-homing once he has fully recovered.

Anyone with information regarding the donkey is asked to contact the ISPCA National Animal Cruelty Helpline in confidence on 1890-515-515 or report it online.