Two Thoroughbreds that were abandoned on 200 hundred acres of farmland have been seized by HAPPA (Horses and Ponies Protection Association).
A statement sent to Your Horse said the landowner followed all the correct lawful procedures, as depicted in The Control of Horses Act 2015, to ensure both equines could be seized. Both were in desperate need of veterinary assistance and are now recovering at the charity’s yard in Burnley, Lancashire.
It added that the landowner was concerned for the horses’ futures, knowing they would not survive the harsh conditions on the moors in winter.
The rescue operation included a local vet and a World Horse Welfare Field Officer. Both horses were lame and showing signs of severe neglect when they were found. After an initial veterinary examination, pain relief was administered to enable them to travel.
“We are experiencing an increasing number of calls from concerned members of the public in relation to abandoned horses,” said equine inspector Elizabeth Pharoah.
“Horses such as [these] two Thoroughbreds were seized due to the landowner lawfully following The Control of Horses Act.
“If you should find a horse abandoned on your land, do not hesitate to get in touch so we can guide you through how to lawfully resolve the issue, to ensure we are able to intervene and therefore protect the welfare of any equine involved.”
Substantial health issues
Veteran mare Kady is recovering
Kady and Ace, as the Thoroughbreds have since been named, both have substantial health issues that are being treated.
Associated veterinary costs amounting to thousands of pounds will be funded by HAPPA.
“It is likely that both horses had a racing or racing training background, and therefore HAPPA can work collaboratively with the Retraining of Racehorses, utilising their Vulnerable Horse Scheme, a vital source of funding for vulnerable Thoroughbreds such as these poor souls, offering them the best chance of recovery,” said the statement.
Lame and underweight
HAPPA equine rehabilitation manager Rachel Smith said Kady is a 21-year-old mare and underweight. She is also lame, and has very small incisor teeth, so her diet will need to be closely monitored.
“She is on pain relief and a deep bedding system to ensure she remains comfortable,” said Rachel. “Initial X-rays and investigations show that there is no substantial damage to the internal structure of the hoof or musculoskeletal system.
“Laminitis was an initial concern. Kady will need regular remedial trimming and farrier attention.”
Ace is a six-year-old stallion in poor condition and he has a retained testicle, which makes castration, a usually routine procedure, more difficult.
He will be admitted for veterinary surgery under general anaesthetic as soon as he is fit and well enough.
Ace was rescued in poor condition
The stallion’s hooves are overgrown and he will require farrier attention for the next 12 months to correct a hoof imbalance.
Substantial costs
The initial and ongoing veterinary and rehabilitation costs for these horses will be substantial, the statement said.
“The landowner was right to be concerned as Thoroughbreds are unable to keep condition in cold, wet, and wintery environments without the correct care,” added Rachel.
“Both horses will now receive the best chance of recovery. Bespoke rehabilitation plans are in place for Kady and Ace, addressing all their needs. I am hopeful that they will make a full recovery, and we can give them a second chance of a brighter future.”
HAPPA is also appealing to all landowners that find horses abandoned on their property to get in touch for advice on how to act lawfully.
Guidance on this can be found on the HAPPA website.
To contribute to Kady and Ace’s veterinary costs, donate here.
Images © HAPPA
