0:00:03 > 0:00:05Britain's animals are under threat.
0:00:05 > 0:00:09All too often, our wildlife and domestic pets
0:00:09 > 0:00:12are the victims of cruelty, persecution and neglect.
0:00:12 > 0:00:15Fighting to save them is a dedicated band of people
0:00:15 > 0:00:18trying to protect and care for them right around the clock.
0:00:18 > 0:00:21This is Animal 24/7.
0:00:42 > 0:00:46Today on Animal 24/7, at the end of their tether...
0:00:46 > 0:00:49two dogs left to suffer in the sun.
0:00:49 > 0:00:52There isn't any shelter at all for them.
0:00:52 > 0:00:57Not only shelter from the rain and that, but shelter from the heat as well.
0:00:59 > 0:01:03A bidding war to save these ponies from an uncertain future.
0:01:03 > 0:01:06If you allow emotion to play too much of a role, I'd end up taking all
0:01:06 > 0:01:07of these back with us,
0:01:07 > 0:01:10and we couldn't look after them all properly.
0:01:13 > 0:01:15And Plummet the gannet lives up to its name.
0:01:17 > 0:01:21You imagine lobbing him off a cliff and he goes, "Ahh", down like that.
0:01:21 > 0:01:25That was possibly the most inelegant flight I've ever seen!
0:01:26 > 0:01:31The sight of a tethered dog sparks a strong reaction but, in the right circumstances,
0:01:31 > 0:01:36it can be a good way of, say, keeping a guard dog or preventing a pet from running away.
0:01:36 > 0:01:40But care needs to be taken to ensure the animal doesn't come to any harm,
0:01:40 > 0:01:43especially if there's no shelter from the sun.
0:01:53 > 0:01:57It's a sweltering day in Wales and RSPCA inspector Keith Hogben
0:01:57 > 0:02:01has received some news that's left him hot under the collar.
0:02:01 > 0:02:04We've had a call from someone this afternoon regarding two dogs that are
0:02:04 > 0:02:09kept in a shed with no water, and one was apparently on a tether as well.
0:02:09 > 0:02:13Obviously it's quite hot today so the lack of water is quite a concern.
0:02:20 > 0:02:27But it seems there's no-one home, so Keith begins looking for clues that might support the complaint.
0:02:28 > 0:02:31There's signs of dogs here. There's a...
0:02:31 > 0:02:34could be a water bowl here, and there's an old lead on what
0:02:34 > 0:02:38could be described as a tether, so there is obviously dogs around.
0:02:38 > 0:02:41Inside, there are more worrying signs.
0:02:41 > 0:02:46I've just had a quick look through the window in case there were dogs
0:02:46 > 0:02:53inside, and the house looks in quite an unkempt state and there's plenty of junk all over the place, so...
0:02:53 > 0:02:57you know, if a dog is living in these conditions, I'm going
0:02:57 > 0:03:00to look to be obviously giving advice and hoping these people follow it.
0:03:00 > 0:03:03It doesn't look a particularly clean
0:03:03 > 0:03:09environment for any animal, let alone humans to be in, so although we've got our concerns for the animals'
0:03:09 > 0:03:14welfare, I'd also have concerns for the actual owners' welfare and anyone else living at the property.
0:03:14 > 0:03:16BARKING
0:03:16 > 0:03:22Keith still can't see any dogs at the front, but then he hears barking coming from round the back.
0:03:22 > 0:03:27In the garden, he spots what he's been looking for.
0:03:27 > 0:03:28It looks like, to me...
0:03:28 > 0:03:32Obviously you can hear a couple of dogs, you can see a couple of dogs.
0:03:32 > 0:03:35They haven't rushed to the gate so they may well be on a tether.
0:03:35 > 0:03:39I want to check they've got water and some shelter.
0:03:39 > 0:03:41Obviously there's no-one in, so...
0:03:41 > 0:03:46Normally we wouldn't go into somebody's property, but I've got a concern for their welfare
0:03:46 > 0:03:49so I'm going to check their needs are provided for.
0:03:49 > 0:03:54This environment is completely unsuitable for these two dogs.
0:03:54 > 0:03:56Keith is now extremely concerned.
0:03:57 > 0:04:04The main problem I've got at the moment is, where both dogs are tethered...
0:04:04 > 0:04:06Ssh! Hey, shush, shush, shush, shush.
0:04:06 > 0:04:09..where both dogs are tethered round this washing line,
0:04:09 > 0:04:13they can easily get tangled around it, and that could obviously damage their health.
0:04:13 > 0:04:17They could end up strangling themselves, getting tied together.
0:04:17 > 0:04:20It's not illegal to tether a dog outside...
0:04:20 > 0:04:22Hello, sweetheart.
0:04:22 > 0:04:26..but the way these two are tied up is simply not acceptable.
0:04:26 > 0:04:29Tethering of dogs is fine, you know, as long as it's done correctly
0:04:29 > 0:04:32and they've got free-running swivel, but this...
0:04:32 > 0:04:37The two leads are just getting tangled up between themselves and, all right, they've probably got
0:04:37 > 0:04:42about six foot of play, but they've only got to go round this a few times or start tangling themselves
0:04:42 > 0:04:48when they're playing, and this could get really tight on them, so that's a concern.
0:04:48 > 0:04:53And it's not just the chain that Keith is worried about.
0:04:53 > 0:04:56There isn't any shelter at all for them...
0:04:56 > 0:05:01not only shelter from the rain and that, but shelter from the heat as well.
0:05:03 > 0:05:08The dogs are clearly hot and Keith is keen to check them over.
0:05:08 > 0:05:11Hello, darling. Hello.
0:05:12 > 0:05:15I'm just running my hands over the body of the dogs,
0:05:15 > 0:05:17just to check their condition, actually.
0:05:17 > 0:05:22Both these dogs' condition is OK. They're in reasonable nick.
0:05:22 > 0:05:29The little Westie is a little bit matted but nothing that a good grooming wouldn't sort out.
0:05:29 > 0:05:33But a closer look reveals the other dog is in need of help.
0:05:33 > 0:05:35Got quite a large bald area.
0:05:35 > 0:05:38That could be skin condition, fleas.
0:05:38 > 0:05:40That needs addressing as well.
0:05:43 > 0:05:48And then Keith finds even more problems dangerously close to where the dogs are tethered.
0:05:48 > 0:05:51This is splintered glass.
0:05:51 > 0:05:55You know, you imagine treading on that, it's just going to
0:05:55 > 0:06:01go straight through your foot, like this could go straight through their pads on their paws so we'll
0:06:01 > 0:06:04perhaps take that away or move it.
0:06:04 > 0:06:11We've also got these bits of wood with old rusty nails sticking through them.
0:06:11 > 0:06:13You shouldn't keep an animal in these conditions.
0:06:13 > 0:06:18It wouldn't take a couple of hours to tidy up this whole garden and as long as the place is secure,
0:06:18 > 0:06:20the dogs have the run of the garden.
0:06:20 > 0:06:23If they've got to stay out, you could open up the shed for a shelter.
0:06:23 > 0:06:26They've got the basics, food and water, but the tethering needs
0:06:26 > 0:06:30addressing and all these hazards need addressing as well.
0:06:30 > 0:06:34You know, I'd want to... I'll be back. I'm going to leave a notice.
0:06:34 > 0:06:37I'm going to try and ring the owner cos there's a contact number
0:06:37 > 0:06:43on one of the dogs, and just express my concerns and, by the end of the week, I'd like to see some changes.
0:06:54 > 0:06:58Keith will be back,
0:06:58 > 0:07:02but he's not prepared to leave the dogs surrounded by so many hazards.
0:07:02 > 0:07:06He removes as much of the glass and rusty nails as he can.
0:07:06 > 0:07:09The rest will be up to the owner to do.
0:07:09 > 0:07:12I'm just going to leave a welfare form through his door
0:07:12 > 0:07:18with a guidance leaflet, saying basically what I feel is wrong with the way he's keeping his animals.
0:07:18 > 0:07:21We wouldn't want to live like that, so why should your animals?
0:07:21 > 0:07:24There's no duty of care to these animals.
0:07:24 > 0:07:27They're just tethered out there, get on with it.
0:07:27 > 0:07:30There may be underlying reasons why they're out there,
0:07:30 > 0:07:34but until I actually speak to the owner, we can't really judge too much.
0:07:34 > 0:07:37But, saying that, I want their conditions changed.
0:07:40 > 0:07:43But as Keith is leaving, he has a stroke of luck.
0:07:43 > 0:07:46He spots someone approaching the house.
0:07:46 > 0:07:49Afternoon. Hiya. Is this your property, sir?
0:07:49 > 0:07:50- Yeah.- Ah, hiya.
0:07:50 > 0:07:53I've had a call concerning your dogs, mate.
0:07:59 > 0:08:02Still to come...
0:08:02 > 0:08:05It's not just the dogs that need Keith's help.
0:08:05 > 0:08:07You need to get some fresh air in here.
0:08:07 > 0:08:11Living in this is not good for your health and it's not good for the dogs' health.
0:08:11 > 0:08:14And the rabbits that are raring to go.
0:08:16 > 0:08:18- Oof, well held!- That's looking fine.
0:08:18 > 0:08:20Looking very well.
0:08:24 > 0:08:28The sight of ponies roaming wild on the rugged hills of Dartmoor
0:08:28 > 0:08:31conjures up a romantic image of freedom,
0:08:31 > 0:08:37but what most people don't realise is that Dartmoor ponies are actually owned by local farmers.
0:08:37 > 0:08:42Just like cows, sheep or pigs, they're a source of income and can be sold at auction.
0:08:42 > 0:08:49A few years back, these auctions were extremely profitable and it was a good place to buy riding ponies,
0:08:49 > 0:08:56but now many horses fetch just a few pounds, meaning their future is far from certain.
0:09:00 > 0:09:03Tavistock Auction Market in Devon...
0:09:07 > 0:09:11..and this is the last sale of the year for Dartmoor ponies.
0:09:12 > 0:09:14Keep moving them round! Keep moving!
0:09:14 > 0:09:16Keep moving, don't stand around.
0:09:16 > 0:09:20Many of these animals have spent their whole lives living wild
0:09:20 > 0:09:24and they're terrified, but today their future will be decided.
0:09:28 > 0:09:31Ten guineas. Go on, look what you get for your money! Ten guineas.
0:09:34 > 0:09:40Roland Phillips and Ellen Willis from the Devon Horse And Pony Sanctuary are on a mission...
0:09:40 > 0:09:43- They're nice, aren't they?- Very tiny.
0:09:43 > 0:09:46..and have real concerns for the animals.
0:09:46 > 0:09:50At the end of each sale, there's always a few left over.
0:09:50 > 0:09:53They're perhaps not as attractive, or maybe...
0:09:53 > 0:09:59they're maybe not quite as good as the ones that have made good money, and they face a very bleak future.
0:10:01 > 0:10:06At one time, demand for these ponies was high but, over recent years,
0:10:06 > 0:10:10the market has collapsed, meaning many are sold for a pittance.
0:10:10 > 0:10:14If you take a little chap like this one, or this one here,
0:10:14 > 0:10:18if they just go for a few pounds, they have no real intrinsic value.
0:10:20 > 0:10:23They may be shot, they may even end up being fed -
0:10:23 > 0:10:25I know it sounds absolutely... very dramatic -
0:10:25 > 0:10:29they may even end up being fed to lions in a zoo somewhere.
0:10:29 > 0:10:32It's impossible for Roland to save all the ponies.
0:10:32 > 0:10:36These are just sort of little chaps. They're not going to make much money.
0:10:36 > 0:10:41But he's recently been given a donation which should allow him
0:10:41 > 0:10:44to buy some and then give them the care they need.
0:10:44 > 0:10:47I don't think there's anything there, really, that...
0:10:47 > 0:10:49They look very good, don't they?
0:10:49 > 0:10:55Roland and Ellen begin searching the pens to look for ponies that are need of help.
0:10:55 > 0:10:58- A colt, is it?- That's a filly. - That's a filly.
0:10:58 > 0:11:03They eventually spot two underweight foals who've had a tragic start to their lives.
0:11:03 > 0:11:08We've had a good look round this morning, and we like the look of two of the
0:11:08 > 0:11:12foals in here. Apparently the mother has
0:11:12 > 0:11:18died through ragwort poisoning, which is a horrible thing that equines get.
0:11:18 > 0:11:20It's a weed that they pick up and eat.
0:11:20 > 0:11:25And we feel that they'd be good to take back to the sanctuary, bring them on.
0:11:25 > 0:11:31With some TLC, we should be able to really make something of them...
0:11:31 > 0:11:38and, at some later stage, I think they'll make somebody a very good pet, if not a little riding pony.
0:11:38 > 0:11:43Without their mother's milk, these two orphans have already started to deteriorate.
0:11:43 > 0:11:47Roland wants to take them away to build their strength back up.
0:11:50 > 0:11:55Inside the auction ring, the serious work amongst the dealers is under way.
0:11:55 > 0:12:00- Colt, 20 guineas...- 20 guineas. That's terrible, isn't it?
0:12:00 > 0:12:03The ponies are going for as little as £21.
0:12:03 > 0:12:06The harsh economic climate is clearly taking effect.
0:12:06 > 0:12:09Ten guineas...
0:12:12 > 0:12:19After a brisk period of trading, the first of Roland's favourites is herded into the ring.
0:12:19 > 0:12:21He seems lost without his brother.
0:12:23 > 0:12:25It's time for Roland to try and buy him.
0:12:27 > 0:12:31AUCTIONEER CALLS THE BIDS
0:12:37 > 0:12:43That foal went for 40 guineas, but it's actually a very pretty foal... Sorry, I'll have to...
0:12:43 > 0:12:47Before Roland can draw breath, the second foal is sent into the ring.
0:12:47 > 0:12:51Roland is determined to try and keep them together.
0:12:51 > 0:12:52Maiden bid, 20 guineas...
0:12:55 > 0:12:57Selling now, all done now?
0:12:57 > 0:12:59Selling at 20 guineas.
0:12:59 > 0:13:03Yeah, we got that for 20 guineas.
0:13:03 > 0:13:07For a nice little foal, you know,
0:13:07 > 0:13:09it's not even £25, you know.
0:13:09 > 0:13:11It's crazy money, really.
0:13:15 > 0:13:21With prices so low, Roland and Ellen decide they have enough money to try and save one more pony.
0:13:21 > 0:13:23They look quite good, don't they?
0:13:23 > 0:13:25And there are dozens that look like they need help.
0:13:25 > 0:13:30These ones are probably more the thing we're looking for.
0:13:30 > 0:13:36If you allow emotion to play too much of a role, I'd end up taking all of these back with us, and we couldn't
0:13:36 > 0:13:40look after them all properly,
0:13:40 > 0:13:45so I have to be fairly hard-hearted and just choose
0:13:45 > 0:13:48the ones that I know that we can help.
0:13:50 > 0:13:54Then this tiny chestnut foal catches their eye.
0:13:54 > 0:13:56So what have we got here?
0:13:56 > 0:14:01He's been separated from his mother and seems sad and lonely, but that's not all.
0:14:01 > 0:14:03He appears to have problems with his hooves.
0:14:03 > 0:14:05He's got a bit of a twisted leg.
0:14:05 > 0:14:08Yeah, I can see that. It's swollen up.
0:14:08 > 0:14:11- Yeah. - That right leg has a little twist.
0:14:11 > 0:14:13Yeah, I can see that. Yeah.
0:14:13 > 0:14:17The way this foal is suckling from the other mares in the pen
0:14:17 > 0:14:20suggests he's desperately missing his own mum.
0:14:20 > 0:14:23Roland knows he just has to buy him.
0:14:23 > 0:14:27- I feel bad letting those go through the market, don't you?- Yeah, I do.
0:14:33 > 0:14:38Later: The orphans are safe, but face a long road to recovery.
0:14:38 > 0:14:42Because their mother died while they were still very young and
0:14:42 > 0:14:46they hadn't received enough nutrient in the mother's milk...
0:14:46 > 0:14:49And will Keith make a difference?
0:14:49 > 0:14:52If you work with me, I will help you out, you know.
0:14:52 > 0:14:55- Yes, yes.- If you don't work with me, I will take things further.
0:14:55 > 0:14:58We want the best environment for the dogs.
0:14:58 > 0:15:01- Yes, I do as well. - As well as yourself, all right?
0:15:06 > 0:15:10When you run the busiest wildlife hospital in the world, there's a steady stream of
0:15:10 > 0:15:16casualties coming in to be treated, but how do you know when they're fit enough to be released again?
0:15:16 > 0:15:20Because, with animals, they can't tell you they're feeling a lot better.
0:15:24 > 0:15:31St Tiggywinkles Wildlife Hospital in Buckinghamshire treats more than 10,000 animals every year.
0:15:31 > 0:15:33That one's all right, isn't it?
0:15:33 > 0:15:37The best part of their job is when they can release these animals back into the wild.
0:15:37 > 0:15:42But it can be a tense moment because the timing has to be just right.
0:15:42 > 0:15:44One happy badger!
0:15:44 > 0:15:47Today, I'm joining Les to put a number of patients through
0:15:47 > 0:15:53- their paces to decide which ones are fit for release.- Mind his back legs.
0:15:53 > 0:15:54- Hold his back legs.- Like that?
0:15:54 > 0:15:56Yeah.
0:15:56 > 0:16:00First up are these rabbits who've been cured of myxomatosis,
0:16:00 > 0:16:05a disease which almost wiped out the rabbit population in the 1950s.
0:16:05 > 0:16:08I always thought myxomatosis was a death sentence, in effect.
0:16:08 > 0:16:10Well, it's not drastically.
0:16:10 > 0:16:12It's a virus so they can...
0:16:12 > 0:16:15We can all fight viruses with our own immune system.
0:16:15 > 0:16:18All the bad eyes and all that sort of stuff is a bacteria,
0:16:18 > 0:16:23so if we can kill the bacteria then they stand a good chance of getting over the virus.
0:16:23 > 0:16:25There are four rabbits up for release today,
0:16:25 > 0:16:30but myxomatosis is easily spread so the decision can't be taken lightly.
0:16:30 > 0:16:32Yeah, in there he goes.
0:16:32 > 0:16:35First they need to be examined by vet Jenny Hewlett
0:16:35 > 0:16:38to make sure they're no longer carrying the disease.
0:16:38 > 0:16:41Heart's going very fast. I don't like the look of that eye.
0:16:41 > 0:16:45He's got a milky change to the cornea...
0:16:45 > 0:16:48Inflammation around the eyes is one of the signs.
0:16:48 > 0:16:53Unfortunately, this rabbit still isn't well enough to be given the green light.
0:16:53 > 0:16:56I would probably think that he may need further treatment
0:16:56 > 0:17:02and see if that can resolve prior to releasing him.
0:17:02 > 0:17:05Myxy rabbits are usually quite docile
0:17:05 > 0:17:08so it seems clear the other three have recovered from the disease.
0:17:10 > 0:17:11Oof, well held!
0:17:14 > 0:17:17That's looking fine. Looking very well.
0:17:17 > 0:17:20- That's good, so three out of four. - Yeah.
0:17:20 > 0:17:24It's wonderful to see these rabbits recovered and doing well.
0:17:24 > 0:17:29I think a lot of rabbits are still dying from myxomatosis, but it's wonderful that you're getting a small
0:17:29 > 0:17:33- number of rabbits that are coming through the disease.- Thanks a lot.
0:17:33 > 0:17:39So that's three healthy rabbits boxed up and ready say goodbye to the sanctuary.
0:17:39 > 0:17:44But sometimes working out if an animal is ready for release doesn't need a vet.
0:17:44 > 0:17:47It can be more trial and error.
0:17:47 > 0:17:50So what are we catching in here?
0:17:50 > 0:17:53We've got two gannets, which is very unusual being in the
0:17:53 > 0:17:57middle of Buckinghamshire, but we want to give them a flying test.
0:17:57 > 0:18:00The one thing I know about gannets is that they come
0:18:00 > 0:18:03into the water at incredible speed with that really powerful beak.
0:18:03 > 0:18:06Now, is there a danger that that's going to be into me or you?
0:18:06 > 0:18:11To you! It's very important, when we net them, you know, you net one,
0:18:11 > 0:18:14don't try and pick it up, don't try and grab it.
0:18:14 > 0:18:15Let Sharon and I do it cos we...
0:18:15 > 0:18:20Well, let Sharon do it, actually, then if anybody gets damaged, Sharon can get damaged.
0:18:20 > 0:18:26These two have earned the not very flattering names of Dunnit and Plummet.
0:18:26 > 0:18:29After arriving at the hospital covered in oil,
0:18:29 > 0:18:33they've been cleaned up and made themselves very much at home.
0:18:34 > 0:18:39- Well done.- Les is now worried they don't actually want to leave at all.
0:18:41 > 0:18:44First up for a test flight is Dunnit.
0:18:44 > 0:18:46On three. Ready? Here we go.
0:18:46 > 0:18:49One, two, three!
0:18:53 > 0:18:58Not a great flyer. He flapped his wings, which is a start and that'll build up the chest muscles, so...
0:18:58 > 0:19:02He made a bit of an effort but it wasn't the most graceful or successful of flights, was it?
0:19:02 > 0:19:05'So, Dunnit didn't do it.
0:19:05 > 0:19:07'Now it's my turn with Plummet...'
0:19:07 > 0:19:11One, two, three.
0:19:11 > 0:19:14Oh, no!
0:19:14 > 0:19:16'..who lives up to his name!'
0:19:16 > 0:19:19I mean, Tom, they're not proper gannets, I don't think!
0:19:19 > 0:19:23You imagine lobbing him off a cliff and he goes "Ahh", you know, down like that.
0:19:23 > 0:19:27It was possibly the most inelegant flight I've ever seen!
0:19:27 > 0:19:32Do you have a fair throughput of these things? Do you have any experience of how they get on?
0:19:32 > 0:19:35No. We don't get many gannets up here, you know, so...
0:19:35 > 0:19:37But you've had some successful releases?
0:19:37 > 0:19:41Oh, yeah. When you do release them, when they do go, it's...
0:19:41 > 0:19:43oh, it's absolutely amazing.
0:19:43 > 0:19:49So, for now at least, Dunnit and Plummet can enjoy a few more weeks of Les's hospitality.
0:19:57 > 0:20:01Next, we've donned the waterproofs for the third part of our release mission.
0:20:03 > 0:20:05So what's the plan?
0:20:05 > 0:20:08OK, we've got three cygnets and two geese to catch.
0:20:08 > 0:20:11I'm going to give you a net.
0:20:11 > 0:20:14- Man with net...- Man with net, go in there...- ..always looks comic.
0:20:14 > 0:20:18Go in that end, see if you can catch a cygnet.
0:20:18 > 0:20:22There's no question over whether these birds are ready for release.
0:20:22 > 0:20:24The only problem is catching them.
0:20:26 > 0:20:28- Like that? - That's one, yes. Bring him in.
0:20:28 > 0:20:32The first cygnet isn't a problem, but I'm struggling to get the goose.
0:20:32 > 0:20:35Oi, he gave me the slip, that one!
0:20:35 > 0:20:37I'm not going to give up.
0:20:37 > 0:20:40This time, I'm going to get that goose over there.
0:20:43 > 0:20:45Ha-ha! Got you this time!
0:20:45 > 0:20:49And now I'm getting this bird-catching down to a fine art.
0:20:49 > 0:20:51- Gotcha!- Another one!
0:20:51 > 0:20:54I don't believe that! Can you do that again?
0:20:54 > 0:20:56That was jammy!
0:20:56 > 0:20:58I've got you.
0:20:58 > 0:21:02All five birds are bagged and put in the car.
0:21:02 > 0:21:07The rabbits go in there too. They're all heading for the same place.
0:21:07 > 0:21:10But there's still room for one more.
0:21:10 > 0:21:12Is that the lot?
0:21:12 > 0:21:14No, we've got one more passenger.
0:21:14 > 0:21:18- Oh, yeah?- I think he can go in the glove compartment, though. - I'm intrigued now.
0:21:20 > 0:21:25'The final patient is a grass snake.' She's not going to bite me?
0:21:25 > 0:21:30No, she won't bite you but she'll squirt smelly stuff all over you, and you've got some already, look.
0:21:30 > 0:21:34The grass snake is Britain's longest reptile.
0:21:34 > 0:21:39Although it's not venomous, I can't say they're one of my favourite creatures.
0:21:39 > 0:21:43It's the most common snake in Britain, it's the most beautiful.
0:21:43 > 0:21:45- How fantastic are they?- Yeah.
0:21:45 > 0:21:49This snake was caught in netting on a garden pond.
0:21:49 > 0:21:51And what treatment has she had?
0:21:52 > 0:21:57Well, she's just been cleaned up, a bit of antiseptic on her wounds.
0:21:57 > 0:22:01She was given some fluids. We can't get into her veins, so down her mouth,
0:22:01 > 0:22:05so it's just a question of getting her over the shock and releasing her straightaway.
0:22:05 > 0:22:06Absolutely beautiful.
0:22:10 > 0:22:11Forget Noah's Ark,
0:22:11 > 0:22:15Les's 4x4, complete with three rabbits, three cygnets,
0:22:15 > 0:22:19two geese and one grass snake, takes them to their new home.
0:22:19 > 0:22:25It's some nearby private land, complete with large lake,
0:22:25 > 0:22:27which is perfect for all these animals' needs.
0:22:27 > 0:22:29- Hello, Nick.- Hello, Les.
0:22:29 > 0:22:33The landowner, Nick Moore, often receives animals from Les.
0:22:33 > 0:22:37Today, his son Seb is helping out with this eclectic delivery.
0:22:40 > 0:22:43Yeah, Nick, this is all right for them, isn't it?
0:22:43 > 0:22:47The birds waste no time getting into water.
0:22:47 > 0:22:50Hey, one away, two away!
0:22:50 > 0:22:54Some of them are going to stay here long-term, others not. Is that right?
0:22:54 > 0:22:59Yeah, the white goose will stay here and move in with Nick's family of white geese.
0:22:59 > 0:23:02The swans will leave, fly off in the winter. Or they might stay forever.
0:23:02 > 0:23:06And the greylag, he'll grow up and he'll come and go as he pleases,
0:23:06 > 0:23:09but he might stay with these geese, you know.
0:23:09 > 0:23:11They're pretty family orientated.
0:23:13 > 0:23:17Next, the grass snake is coaxed out...
0:23:17 > 0:23:20You find your own way out there, buddy. Oh, there she goes, look.
0:23:20 > 0:23:24..and slithers off out of sight.
0:23:24 > 0:23:27Look at that! Doesn't she look great?
0:23:27 > 0:23:29Wow!
0:23:31 > 0:23:34Finally, it's the rabbits.
0:23:34 > 0:23:40The way they hit the ground running leaves Les happy that they are fit for freedom.
0:23:40 > 0:23:42Look at him...bobbidy bob!
0:23:42 > 0:23:43Brilliant!
0:23:46 > 0:23:51I guess with some animals, perhaps like the swans, it's a bit easier to know when to release them cos
0:23:51 > 0:23:55they just look well, but these ones have had a critical disease. It's quite a fine balance.
0:23:55 > 0:23:59People always say to me, "Isn't it great releasing things?"
0:23:59 > 0:24:03No, it's a nightmare because you release something and you think, "How's it going to go?
0:24:03 > 0:24:06"Is it going to survive?" If you release a bird, is it going to fly?
0:24:06 > 0:24:08Is it going to plummet?
0:24:08 > 0:24:13Every time you release something you worry if it's going to go cos you haven't tried it out,
0:24:13 > 0:24:15but those rabbits were spot on.
0:24:15 > 0:24:18All in all, it's been a pretty successful day, and hopefully
0:24:18 > 0:24:23I'll be back soon to help Plummet and Dunnit be on their way too.
0:24:30 > 0:24:35Coming up, taming the Dartmoor ponies' wild ways.
0:24:35 > 0:24:40They were so underdeveloped that they've taken longer to mature
0:24:40 > 0:24:44to their age, and they have been a little bit harder to work with.
0:24:48 > 0:24:53Now we're back to North Wales with RSPCA inspector Keith Hogben.
0:24:53 > 0:24:59Earlier we saw Keith visiting two dogs kept on a dangerous tether in a back yard.
0:24:59 > 0:25:03It was overgrown and there was broken glass on the ground.
0:25:03 > 0:25:10Keith wanted to explain to the owner that the way he kept his dogs had to change, and he's just come home.
0:25:18 > 0:25:23Owner Albert has agreed to speak to Keith about the way he's keeping his pets.
0:25:23 > 0:25:26You've been out for the afternoon, have you, sir?
0:25:26 > 0:25:30But once inside, there's another problem that Keith can't ignore.
0:25:34 > 0:25:35The dogs come in, do they, sir?
0:25:37 > 0:25:40See, look, is this dog excrement here, is it?
0:25:40 > 0:25:42Dog pooh?
0:25:44 > 0:25:47Yeah, you need a bit of a hand yourself, don't you, mate?
0:25:50 > 0:25:53The conditions in this house are appalling.
0:25:53 > 0:25:56You need to get some fresh air in here.
0:25:56 > 0:26:00Living in this is not good for your health and it's not good for the dogs' health.
0:26:00 > 0:26:07Albert explains his brother has just died and he's spending time between two houses.
0:26:07 > 0:26:12- It seems he also has health problems himself.- Are you all right?
0:26:12 > 0:26:14- Do you want to sit down?- No.
0:26:14 > 0:26:19It's becoming clear to Keith that it's not just the dogs that need help.
0:26:19 > 0:26:23- Do you want me to get you some water or something?- No.- Are you sure?
0:26:23 > 0:26:28Although Keith is here for the animals, he can't ignore the way Albert is living.
0:26:28 > 0:26:33He'll now ensure the local council know all about this.
0:26:33 > 0:26:36I feel you need help as well as the dogs.
0:26:36 > 0:26:38Social Services might be able to help.
0:26:38 > 0:26:43For now, though, Keith has to speak to Albert about his pets, Misty and Wilma.
0:26:43 > 0:26:46I'll be totally honest with you.
0:26:46 > 0:26:50The way you're keeping the dogs is far from ideal, OK?
0:26:50 > 0:26:52I've got a few issues.
0:26:52 > 0:26:56The main issue is, in this hot weather, they need shelter
0:26:56 > 0:27:02to get away from not only the rain but the sun as well. So whether that's a bit of plywood up against
0:27:02 > 0:27:05the side of the house at an angle so they can get in out the way...
0:27:05 > 0:27:08Now, in the garden, I picked up quite a lot of glass...
0:27:08 > 0:27:11shards of glass, splintered glass outside the back door.
0:27:11 > 0:27:13I've cleared that up for you,
0:27:13 > 0:27:15but that is highly dangerous, obviously,
0:27:15 > 0:27:17to any animal - and yourself.
0:27:17 > 0:27:19You could fall and cut yourself on the glass.
0:27:19 > 0:27:27Keith also wants to make sure Albert knows tying his dogs to a washing post has to change.
0:27:27 > 0:27:30Tethering of dogs is OK as long as it's done correctly.
0:27:30 > 0:27:35Because they're tethered round the clothes-line, they can get... Already there's a knot forming.
0:27:35 > 0:27:40They can get tangled, there's a risk of strangulation, they could get tied up together.
0:27:42 > 0:27:47Although Keith could take further action today, he decides to give Albert a chance to change.
0:27:47 > 0:27:50He spells out what he'd like to see done.
0:27:51 > 0:27:55What needs to happen is, the garden needs to be cleared, doesn't it?
0:27:55 > 0:27:58- Yeah. - The bottom shed would be ideal for
0:27:58 > 0:28:02shelter, like you say, or even have the door open or cut a little hole in the bottom of it.
0:28:05 > 0:28:06Yeah, that would be fine.
0:28:06 > 0:28:10And then, as long as the garden's secure so the dogs can't get out,
0:28:10 > 0:28:13there's no need for them to be on the tether, is there?
0:28:13 > 0:28:15But Keith's advice does come with a warning.
0:28:15 > 0:28:19If you work with me, I will help you out.
0:28:19 > 0:28:22If you don't work with me, I will take things further,
0:28:22 > 0:28:23cos at the end of the day,
0:28:23 > 0:28:27we want the best environment for the dogs as well as yourself, all right?
0:28:27 > 0:28:30It's obvious the pets mean a lot to him...
0:28:33 > 0:28:36But Keith thinks he may be able to cope better without them.
0:28:36 > 0:28:39If you feel that the dogs are too much for you...
0:28:39 > 0:28:43I appreciate you've got a lot going on with your brother passing away, you know.
0:28:43 > 0:28:46Your house needs a bit of a tidy, doesn't it?
0:28:46 > 0:28:49If the dogs you want re-homing, I can help you out there as well.
0:28:51 > 0:28:53All right, sir? You take care now.
0:28:53 > 0:29:00Keith leaves Albert to reflect on his visit, and he's hoping it will benefit more than just the dogs.
0:29:00 > 0:29:04Sometimes people need our help, not only for their animals
0:29:04 > 0:29:07but for them as well, and I've got a duty to him as well.
0:29:07 > 0:29:11And he knows things are getting on top of him and that's half the battle.
0:29:11 > 0:29:14He knows that and I think he wants to do something right.
0:29:14 > 0:29:19We come across this situation far too often, and the gentleman's got no family,
0:29:19 > 0:29:26doesn't seem to have a big circle of friends around him, so he needs help, he does, the dogs need our help.
0:29:26 > 0:29:28It just makes me feel sad.
0:29:28 > 0:29:31But with no-one around to support him, can Albert
0:29:31 > 0:29:34really make any difference by the time Keith returns?
0:29:43 > 0:29:44Still to come...
0:29:44 > 0:29:46If there's no improvement at all,
0:29:46 > 0:29:50perhaps we'll have to go down the line of issuing a warning notice, which is a bit more serious,
0:29:50 > 0:29:56but I'm hoping that that won't be the case, and I want to help this gentleman out.
0:29:56 > 0:29:58He seems to be up against it at the moment.
0:30:01 > 0:30:05At a recent sale of Dartmoor ponies, some of the animals were going for
0:30:05 > 0:30:09as little as £10, prompting fears that they could end up as pet food.
0:30:09 > 0:30:13Now, charity workers Roland Phillips and Ellen Willis
0:30:13 > 0:30:16from the Devon Horse And Pony Sanctuary have stepped in,
0:30:16 > 0:30:20to make sure at least some of them will get a much better life.
0:30:28 > 0:30:35At the auction of Dartmoor ponies, Roland Phillips and Ellen Willis have managed to buy these two foals.
0:30:37 > 0:30:39Now they're bidding for one more,
0:30:39 > 0:30:45a sad-looking youngster who's lame and seems too small to be away from his mum.
0:30:45 > 0:30:51- 25, 27? 27...- 102.
0:30:51 > 0:30:55The hammer signals this pony's future is now safe.
0:30:57 > 0:31:02The day's business draws to a close and now Roland needs to settle up.
0:31:02 > 0:31:07It's amazing that you can buy three animals for just over £100, isn't it?
0:31:08 > 0:31:12The bills are paid. It's now time to take the ponies away.
0:31:15 > 0:31:21- Come on. - They've spent their lives living wild on the moor and are terrified.
0:31:24 > 0:31:27That's it. That's it, thank you, yeah.
0:31:27 > 0:31:29Thank you.
0:31:29 > 0:31:34Roland and his team now have the long job of helping these ponies get used to humans.
0:31:36 > 0:31:39There we go. Get on! That's it.
0:31:44 > 0:31:48They're taken to the Devon Horse And Pony Sanctuary's HQ.
0:31:48 > 0:31:51It's here where their new lives will begin.
0:31:52 > 0:31:54If you take that one, Mandy...
0:31:58 > 0:32:00There we go. Very quietly.
0:32:00 > 0:32:03If I go into them on the right side and just...
0:32:03 > 0:32:05Gently.
0:32:05 > 0:32:11Bemused at their new surroundings, the chestnut pony leads the two orphans slowly into their stable.
0:32:11 > 0:32:14This is all very new.
0:32:14 > 0:32:16Good boy, good boy.
0:32:16 > 0:32:20After the stress of being rounded up, herded into pens and sold,
0:32:20 > 0:32:24it's important the ponies are now given time to feel safe.
0:32:24 > 0:32:26That went well.
0:32:26 > 0:32:30But before anyone can relax, Roland wants to check the ponies over.
0:32:30 > 0:32:34He believes the chestnut's lameness should be cured by a trip to the
0:32:34 > 0:32:38blacksmith, but it's the two orphans who are in the most need of help.
0:32:38 > 0:32:44Yeah, my biggest concern with these two guys, particularly, is the amount of weight loss
0:32:44 > 0:32:50cos their mother died while they were still very young, and they hadn't been weaned off the mother.
0:32:50 > 0:32:57They haven't received enough nutrient in the mother's milk, which is why you can see how
0:32:57 > 0:33:02tucked-in at the sides... And you can just see the bones on the hips.
0:33:02 > 0:33:06I think, with a bit of care and some good food, they'll be fine.
0:33:14 > 0:33:18Seven months later, and all three of the ponies are blooming.
0:33:18 > 0:33:21They've also got names... Snowflake, Rudolph and Cracker.
0:33:24 > 0:33:29They've piled on the weight, and Cracker's lameness has been cured.
0:33:29 > 0:33:33But smoothing out their wild ways is taking time.
0:33:33 > 0:33:36They haven't been very easy to come to terms with.
0:33:36 > 0:33:40The little guy, little Cracker, has done more.
0:33:40 > 0:33:43He seems to have bonded with people a lot better.
0:33:43 > 0:33:48The other two, because they were a lot later, they were so underdeveloped
0:33:48 > 0:33:55that they've taken longer to mature to their age, and they have been a little bit harder to work with.
0:33:55 > 0:34:01The priority with the orphans is to get them comfortable around humans.
0:34:01 > 0:34:05Donna Webb is trying to train Snowflake to get used to being led.
0:34:05 > 0:34:10Because he's not used to walking on a lead rope, you pull and it's pressure on their head,
0:34:10 > 0:34:15and as soon as they start walking, it releases the pressure and they get a treat at the end of it.
0:34:15 > 0:34:17It's all part of the learning.
0:34:17 > 0:34:21There's not a lot else you can do to get them to walk on.
0:34:21 > 0:34:23Give him treats at the end of it,
0:34:23 > 0:34:25it will encourage him
0:34:25 > 0:34:27to do it.
0:34:27 > 0:34:32The plan is to transform the orphans into riding ponies for children,
0:34:32 > 0:34:35and at least they seem willing to learn.
0:34:35 > 0:34:43Just to get their trust in people, get used to having things on their back, just very carefully, slowly
0:34:43 > 0:34:46groom them and then it all comes together.
0:34:46 > 0:34:51Obviously they came, they were very wild and it was just getting their trust.
0:34:51 > 0:34:56A lot of feed to do that, lots of treats. They are getting there.
0:34:56 > 0:34:58Very sweet, very cute,
0:34:58 > 0:35:01and we'll get there in the end, won't we?
0:35:01 > 0:35:04Cracker has proved much easier to train.
0:35:04 > 0:35:09Sad and lonely when he was rescued, he's now a key member of the charity team.
0:35:09 > 0:35:13He has been used recently with children with special needs,
0:35:13 > 0:35:17and we've taken him to a lot of local fetes and National Trust
0:35:17 > 0:35:23properties that we've gone to to promote the charity itself, as an ambassador, really.
0:35:23 > 0:35:27Cracker is also a favourite with the sanctuary's young groom.
0:35:27 > 0:35:31Yeah, he's been doing really well since we first got him.
0:35:31 > 0:35:34He's really calm, quiet, good with kids,
0:35:34 > 0:35:40he loves being groomed and he's just really nice.
0:35:40 > 0:35:46A few months ago, these were wild moorland ponies with an uncertain future.
0:35:46 > 0:35:50Now their transformation into family favourites is almost complete.
0:35:50 > 0:35:55In general, they've behaved, they've fattened up,
0:35:55 > 0:35:58they've matured, um...
0:35:58 > 0:36:03They've done everything that we could've wished for them to achieve.
0:36:03 > 0:36:07Their life expectancy here, um...
0:36:07 > 0:36:10far outweighs where they've come from.
0:36:10 > 0:36:16And the team here is determined to continue doing all they can to rescue more characters like these.
0:36:22 > 0:36:27Finally, we're back to Wales where RSPCA inspector Keith Hogben
0:36:27 > 0:36:31is trying to persuade the owner of two dogs to improve their conditions.
0:36:31 > 0:36:35Misty and Wilma were being kept tethered outside
0:36:35 > 0:36:39in an area with no shelter and full of broken glass.
0:36:39 > 0:36:45But Keith is also concerned about the way their owner is living and wants to try and help him too.
0:36:55 > 0:37:02RSPCA inspector Keith Hogben is on his way to a priority case where he's hoping to see some change.
0:37:03 > 0:37:08I spoke to the gentleman on the phone. He wants to hang onto the dogs, which I'm all for,
0:37:08 > 0:37:12so we're just going to go back and have a look and see how things are going.
0:37:12 > 0:37:15Hopefully we'll see some improvement.
0:37:15 > 0:37:19I can give him a voucher to take one of the dogs to the vet's as well,
0:37:19 > 0:37:22but I want to see some improvement there.
0:37:22 > 0:37:27If there's no improvement at all, perhaps we'll have to go down the line of issuing a warning notice,
0:37:27 > 0:37:32which is a bit more serious, then, but I'm hoping that that won't the case.
0:37:32 > 0:37:37I want to help this gentleman out. He seems to be up against it at the moment.
0:37:37 > 0:37:41He lives on his own, he's got no family or very little friends around him,
0:37:41 > 0:37:44so I think he needs all the help we can offer him.
0:37:47 > 0:37:53As Keith arrives at Albert's front door, there's no obvious sign things have got better.
0:37:59 > 0:38:02Around the back, though, Keith is stunned by the transformation.
0:38:04 > 0:38:06Hee-hee! This is fantastic.
0:38:06 > 0:38:09I bet you two are a lot happier, aren't you?
0:38:11 > 0:38:16In just two days, Albert has done his very best to clear the garden.
0:38:16 > 0:38:19I'm really chuffed to bits. Thank you very much.
0:38:21 > 0:38:27The grass has been cut back, and while it's still not perfect, all the hazards have been removed.
0:38:27 > 0:38:30So we've just got to keep on top of it now, haven't we?
0:38:30 > 0:38:35For Keith, this proves just how committed Albert is to keeping his dogs.
0:38:36 > 0:38:40He's even provided a shelter to protect them from the sun.
0:38:40 > 0:38:43Did you make that?
0:38:43 > 0:38:47Wow. You can come round to mine and do some DIY, I think. I tell you.
0:38:47 > 0:38:52The chain Misty and Wilma were getting tangled up in has also disappeared.
0:38:52 > 0:38:54The spikes are really good.
0:38:54 > 0:38:59Albert has been out specially to buy a proper tether.
0:38:59 > 0:39:02- Where were they from, the pet shop or...?- Yes.
0:39:02 > 0:39:04From the pet shop.
0:39:04 > 0:39:07Yeah? Oh, no, that's excellent.
0:39:07 > 0:39:12And so they're not going to... They're on swivels, aren't they? So that's good. Wow.
0:39:12 > 0:39:14Albert's really worked for his dogs.
0:39:14 > 0:39:17Have you done all this? Have you had any help?
0:39:17 > 0:39:19You've worked hard, haven't you?
0:39:19 > 0:39:20Yeah.
0:39:23 > 0:39:26And inside, it looks like he's trying to tidy...
0:39:27 > 0:39:32but there's just too much for him to do on his own.
0:39:32 > 0:39:34Now all we've got to do is sort your house out.
0:39:34 > 0:39:36Are you going to start that tomorrow?
0:39:36 > 0:39:39- Yes.- Has the lady from the council been round?
0:39:41 > 0:39:44Yeah. Is she going to be able to give you any help?
0:39:46 > 0:39:50- Brilliant.- Albert is expecting some support from the council...
0:39:50 > 0:39:52Good stuff. I won't be a minute.
0:39:52 > 0:39:55..meaning his house will also be cleaned.
0:39:55 > 0:39:58But Keith's determined to keep in touch.
0:39:58 > 0:40:04Things like this do have a habit of reoccurring, but I think... I'm quite often in this neck of the woods.
0:40:04 > 0:40:07If I can spend ten minutes, quarter of an hour with him,
0:40:07 > 0:40:10just checking that he's all right as well as the dogs, then...
0:40:10 > 0:40:13once a month or so, you know, I'm sure he'll be fine.
0:40:13 > 0:40:17I believe a home help's now going to be coming in once or twice a week,
0:40:17 > 0:40:19and it is just keeping on top of things.
0:40:19 > 0:40:22Albert has kept his side of the bargain,
0:40:22 > 0:40:27so Keith offers even more help to ensure Misty's flea allergy is treated.
0:40:27 > 0:40:29So this voucher I'm going to give you...
0:40:29 > 0:40:33if I make it out for up to £45, which is more than enough for
0:40:33 > 0:40:38a consultation and for any treatment that the dog needs.
0:40:38 > 0:40:40Take that voucher with them,
0:40:40 > 0:40:44just give that to the vets and they will send that off to us.
0:40:44 > 0:40:48What I'll do, when we've got some improvements inside as well,
0:40:48 > 0:40:52I'll pop along and I'll microchip the dogs for you. All right?
0:40:52 > 0:40:53Good stuff.
0:40:53 > 0:40:58We've done some good between us, haven't we? And I'll probably pop round next week some time. OK?
0:40:58 > 0:41:00You take care, look after yourself.
0:41:00 > 0:41:01Ta-ta.
0:41:06 > 0:41:10Keith is happy the dogs now have a much better environment
0:41:10 > 0:41:15and will continue to do all he can to make sure Albert gets the help he needs too.
0:41:19 > 0:41:22When he opened the back door of the garden and it was just clear,
0:41:22 > 0:41:27you know, it makes my job so enjoyable to see
0:41:27 > 0:41:32a gentleman who's up against it but has taken the advice the RSPCA have given him.
0:41:32 > 0:41:36The gentleman knows he's got a bit more work to do there,
0:41:36 > 0:41:39but from we saw it two days ago to now, that's unbelievable.
0:41:39 > 0:41:43He's worked his socks off, and it just put a smile on my face.
0:41:43 > 0:41:45I don't mind helping him further now.
0:41:56 > 0:42:02If you think you know of a case of wildlife crime, or a creature that needs immediate protection,
0:42:02 > 0:42:06remember there are people out there who will answer your call right around the clock.
0:42:06 > 0:42:10They are who we meet on Animal 24/7.
0:42:12 > 0:42:14Next time...
0:42:14 > 0:42:17The smell is that strong it actually makes me want to vomit.
0:42:17 > 0:42:21- Locked up, four puppies shut in a dark wardrobe. - There's no ventilation.
0:42:21 > 0:42:26When that's shut, if that light's off, basically you've just locked them in a cupboard and that's not on.
0:42:26 > 0:42:29- You can't lock them in a cupboard. - They do come out.
0:42:29 > 0:42:31A late-night stake-out for a snared badger.
0:42:31 > 0:42:38We've been here five hours and the little badger hasn't turned up, unfortunately.
0:42:38 > 0:42:43And I'm hoping practice makes perfect, as I help to move this bad-tempered croc.
0:42:43 > 0:42:49Do be aware that these animals also have the ability to thrash, so no faces anywhere near their head.
0:42:49 > 0:42:52- So don't put it up there cos... - That's not a good idea.
0:43:16 > 0:43:18Subtitles by Red Bee Media Ltd
0:43:18 > 0:43:20E-mail subtitling@bbc.co.uk