RSPCA inspectors are being ‘pushed to their limits’ after 23 abandoned horses have died in Kent during the past three months.
‘Simply barbaric’
Since 15 November the RSPCA has attended 21 incidents in the south east county. From these call-outs 14 horses were dead on arrival nine had to be put to sleep and only two survived and are recovering.
“We are seeing a spate of dumped horses in Kent at the moment which is extremely shocking and distressing and needs to stop” said inspector Caroline Doe.
“These horses appear to have been transported in vans or pick-up trucks to quiet locations where they are callously dumped some even while they are still just alive which is quite simply barbaric.”
Strain on resources
The charity has already received over 300 calls about horses in Kent since the start of the new year.
“This is pushing our inspectors to their limits and putting a strain on resources” said inspector Doe. “We are asking the public to remember that we have finite resources and must always act within the law.”
Under the Animal Welfare Act 2006 anyone found guilty of causing unnecessary suffering to an animal could face a maximum six-month prison sentence and/or a £20,000 fine.
The RSPCA believes one of the main reasons for the on-going horse crisis is overbreeding. As a result prices have dropped significantly while some horse owners can not give their horses away.
Call for help
Owners who are struggling to care for their horses are being urged to contact the RSPCA or other horse welfare charities for assistance rather than dump their animals in a dying state.
“We are urging the public in Kent to be vigilant” added inspector Doe. “As always anyone with any welfare concerns about horses or any other animals or information about any of the recent incidents can contact the RSPCA cruelty and advice line by calling 0300 1234 999.”