An owner has been banned from keeping equines after pony in her care was found tethered without shelter.
The RSPCA investigated the case after Sugar the pony was spotted tied up in a Hull field behind a sports centre. She was found soaking wet and cold with no protection from the elements.
Tammy Smith, 35, of Bankside, Hull, appeared at Hull Magistrates Court on 14 February in a case brought by the charity. She admitted one offence under the Animal Welfare Act 2006, for failing to provide a suitable living environment and protection from adverse weather for Sugar.
RSPCA Inspector Laura Barber was called in January 2021 to investigate Sugar’s condition.
“On finding Sugar, I discovered she was tethered to a stake in the ground on a metal chain, attached to a nylon headcollar,” she said. “She stood in tall weeds, not on grass, and was close to tall shrubs.”
The vet who was called to examine Sugar said in their witness statement: that Sugar was tethered in an unsuitable environment with no access to shelter, leaving her “soaking wet and cold”. No rug for warmth or protection from the wind and rain had been provided.
Smith was given a 12-month Community Order with up to 10 rehabilitation requirement activity days to be completed. She was also ordered to pay a fine of £120, a victim surcharge of £95, and further costs of £150. Smith was disqualified from keeping equines, mules, donkeys and their hybrids for five years, with no appeal for 30 months.
Sugar has been cared for by the RSPCA’s equine team. Now the case has concluded and she has been signed over to the charity’s care, the team can begin the search for a new home for her.
