After 14 Horses Died, Equestrian Community Faces Largest-Ever Animal Welfare Case

The equestrian community is no stranger to horse fatalities. Race track or off-ground, accidents or negligence, the equines’ suffering leaves a deep mark. There have been thousands of reports on such cases over the years, evoking responses from the governing bodies. However, mistreatment and negligence of horses in mass often stand out; beyond the reach of authorities until late.

According to reports in 2020, 100 thousand pet horses underwent abuse and negligence over the year. Today, another incident adds to the numbers, casting a dark cloud over the community. An investigation in the greater Stanley area back in April revealed staggering details concerning the situation of horses. Six months in, fortunately, or not, reports reveal progress in the case.

Equestrian community stumbles upon an unkind situation

Back in April, New Brunswick SPCA received a call about horse fatalities at a farm in the greater Stanley area. The organization led an investigation that revealed 14 dead horses on site and five more in poor health. While the investigation continued to find the cause of the deaths, the 5 equines were sent to a safe space. ?These horses were assessed by a veterinarian and are currently safe and receiving medical and rehabilitative care through a foster arrangement,? an SPCA officer told Global News.

The investigation further stated that there were other pets on the property. However, they were found to be in good shape and were sent to daily care. The incident involving 14 dead horses, proved to be the largest in the province’s history, the SPCA’s chief animal protection officer, Tony Porter, told CBC.? Months after the case, the accused is set to be brought under the jurisdiction of law to face charges.

The progress of the case

As of now, the woman has been facing 3 charges relating to animal welfare. Injuring or endangering animals, cruelty to animals by causing unnecessary suffering, and causing damage or injury, are the reported charges. Following with that, the woman is said to appear in the court ‘early next month.’ Though the penalties yet remain to be decided, CBC lists the possibilities of the same.

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The website states 3 offenses based on the criminal code. One of which states, “any owner or person who has custody or control of a domestic animal or a bird or an animal or a bird wild by nature that is in captivity, and ‘abandons it in distress or wilfully neglects or fails to provide suitable and adequate food, water, shelter and care for it’ commits an offense.” The other two touch upon ‘causing unnecessary pain’ and ‘unlawful killing or injuries.’

According to reports, the offenses could befall the woman $10,000 fine or up to 5 years of prison depending upon the prosecutor. While the judgement remains unknown for now, it proves to be a right step in monitoring the remote and enclosed spaces; out of the public view. As well as a reminder for the people around to make a firm stand against the mentioned actions.

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