RSPCA Victoria Inspectors have seized three horses and three foals from an Ararat property after receiving a cruelty report from a member of the public.
The animals were seized by Inspectors with three mares allegedly found to be in poor body condition each with a foal at foot and their welfare at risk.
RSPCA Victoria Chief Inspector Michelle Green said people had a legal obligation to provide for the animals in their care.
“Every person who owns or is in charge of an animal must ensure it has sufficient food and water,” Chief Inspector Green said.
“This is particularly vital for animals who are also caring for their young.
“RSPCA Victoria’s Inspectorate will continue to hold this repeat offender to account, including ongoing monitoring of multiple disqualification orders.
“We’d also like to acknowledge and thank Victoria Police for their assistance regarding this matter.”
While this investigation remains ongoing, and no further comment regarding this matter is available at this stage, Chief Inspector Green also expressed concerns regarding members of the community.
“We appreciate the community’s concern regarding the animals at this property, however; we urge people to not take matters into their own hands,” Chief Inspector Green said.
“The individual at this property is known to RSPCA Victoria, and while a number of previous legal matters have been heard in court and are subject to monitoring orders, this is now a new and active investigation and any interference from the public could compromise the outcome, so we ask people to please show restraint.”
RSPCA Victoria’s team will now assess and provide any necessary veterinary treatment and care for these animals.
Reports from the community are vital to ensure animal cruelty and neglect are investigated, and anyone with concerns about the welfare of animals is urged to make a report to RSPCA Victoria at rspcavic.org/cruelty-report/ or by calling 03 9224 2222.
It’s estimated it will cost RSPCA Victoria more than $10.7 million to operate the Inspectorate this financial year.
