This article is more than 11 years old

This article is more than 11 years old

Mayflower, a particularly compact pony, would like you to know the following: she is not stuck in mud, she simply has very short legs.

Fire crews have been called four times to the animal's favourite grazing spot on salt marshes by the River Test in Southampton, most recently earlier this week, by concerned onlookers.

Anton Phillips, the animal rescue specialist for Hampshire fire service, explained that Mayflower's distinctive physique – an apparent cross between a Shetland and New Forest pony, she has the stumpy-legged look of an equine dachshund – means that from a distance it can appear she is trapped in soft ground.

"We have been called out several times for the animal now and it is getting a bit ridiculous," he said.

"These calls from the public are with good intent. When viewed at long range, this pony looks like it is trapped, particularly if it is standing still next to its mates which are twice its height."

Mayflower's owner is reportedly considering putting up a sign in the field to reassure passers-by.