Unit rescues starving horses
CHCU has removed 10 starving mares and foals from a TB stud farm.
THE Coastal Horse Care Unit (CHCU) has gone to the aid of 57 skinny Throughbred horses from a stud outside Pietermaritzburg.
After obtaining a court order, the unit removed ten of the worst-affected horses back to the farm in Cato Ridge for intensive care and veterinary treatment.
Due to the large number of horses involved, not all the horses could be moved. The remaining horses were left at the stud and will continue to be monitored until a solution can be found for their welfare.
Gill Olmesdahl, manager of CHCU said some horses were in an appalling condition.
“Since we became involved, no food or hay or veterinary attention has been delivered by the owners and caretakers of these horses. A few of the horses were really sick and one had a really bad head wound which was untreated, and needed a vet urgently.”
CHCU organised for a vet to treat all the horses needing attention. The current stable manager at the stud farm has resigned as of the 24 March, which is of grave concern to the unit as she will need to be replaced so that the horses will continue to be fed and cared for.
“People in the racing industry are going to see the horses and they are offering to buy them, but their offers are not being accepted. We are really concerned as we feel that it is not in the best interest of the horses. The terrible condition of most of the horses also compromises the sale of these horses,” said Gill.
Coastal Horse Care Unit will continue to monitor the horses and will ensure a good outcome for all. The Racing Industry (Gold Circle, National Association of Racing (NRA) and Throughbred Breeders’ Association (TBA) have offered assistance in resolving the problem but it has still been a huge financial drain on the Unit.
Further action will be taken under the Animal Protection Act if the owners do not cooperate.
If you would like to help with financial contributions. The banking details are:
THE COASTAL HORSE CARE UNIT
FNB ACCCOUNT NO – 62220717815
KLOOF BRANCH CODE – 221526
REF- TB RESCUE
or donate online at www.coastalhorsecareunit.org.za/donate
