Man Banned From Keeping Horses

Horse Ban

Ryan October 2009 Karl Walde (aged 50) has been banned from keeping equids for 10 years after he admitted causing unnecessary suffering to his horse, in a case brought by the RSPCA.

Walde, of Shipton-under-Wychwood, was also £750 fine and served a 200 hour community service order.

Banbury Magistrates Court heard that Ryan, a bay Clydesdale horse, was seen by a member of the public in March 2009 who alerted the RSPCA.  The horse was emaciated and his ribs, hip and pelvis bones were clearly visible.  He had a high amount of worms and poor teeth which had not been checked and resulted in eating problems.  Ryan also had an untreated infected wound on his right back leg. 

A vet concluded that Ryan had been made to suffer for three months from lack of an adequate amount of food and water.  She also said that his leg injury was at least two weeks old.

The defendant claimed that he was having financial problems as mitigation for not seeking any help for the horse.

RSPCA inspector Will Rippon said:  “This horse was in very poor condition and was suffering simply through a lack of food and veterinary treatment.

“If someone feels unable to care for their animals due to finances or any other reasons, they must seek help and advice from a vet or animal welfare organisation.  It is simply not acceptable to ignore the problem and leave the animal to suffer.”

Ryan was placed into the care of The Horse Trust where he will continue to be cared for.  He has made a good recovery and is now the right weight for a horse of his size. He has had regular treatment from The Horse Trust’s dental technician and farrier and now has four trimmed and healthy hooves.

Charli Pardon, head groom at The Horse Trust, said:  “Ryan arrived here in a very poor condition.  He was emaciated and was wobbly on his feet, due to muscle wastage.  His transformation has been amazing, he is now in good condition and is a lively, cheeky character who loves the attention showered on him by staff and visitors.

“We are pleased that we were able to work with the RSPCA to give Ryan a secure and happy future for the rest of his life.”

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The Trust is a member of the National Equine Welfare CouncilRegistered Charity Number 231748