HEARTBREAKING: Neglected horse finally rescued
The injured horse was taken to a place of safety shortly after being found wandering along the Memel Road.
The day you take home a pet is the day you make an oath to love, protect and care for that animal.
However, all too often the Newcastle SPCA receives complaints of pet owners doing the exact opposite.
Read: UPDATE – SPCA speaks on the alleged dog poisoning
On December 9, Inspector, Elize van Rooyen of the SPCA was called to a house in Fort Amiel, where a beautiful stallion could be seen, bearing the scars and injuries of a tale of abuse and negligence.
“This is absolute animal cruelty! His wounds are infected and he is covered in external parasites, both which are punishable under the animal act!” exclaimed an outraged Ms van Rooyen.
According to Ms van Rooyen, a resident in the area spotted the horse wandering on the Memel Road, towards Amiel Park. The resident then lured the horse to a nearby farm, where she contacted the SPCA for help.
On arrival, Ms van Rooyen noticed the horse had severe untreated and infected wounds, and was covered in ticks and flies; indicative that the owner had no intention of seeking veterinary care for the injured horse.
“The horse also seems to have tick-bite fever, which is extremely dangerous and life-threatening to horses.”
She requested help from the municipal pound, and confirmed the neglected horse would be confiscated, and the owner would be fined according to the animal laws.
Resident, Mariaan Ehlers, said she herself had three horses, and believed owners should take responsibility when keeping horses. According to her, it was not the first time the horse had been spotted wandering the streets of Amiel Park.
“My husband has warned the owner of the horse before to keep it in his land, and to treat the parasites before it became a bigger problem, and yet they never did. This horse clearly needs saving,” said a concerned Mrs Ehlers.
The horse was treated for his wounds, and Ms van Rooyen said only time would tell if the injured beauty would survive or not.
Pet owners are urged to take care of their animals, and make sure they receive regular check-ups to avoid facing the law.
“Refusing your horse basic medical care is punishable, and owners will be fined under the animal abuse act,” concluded Ms van Rooyen.
