THE IRISH Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals has condemned the continued breeding of horses, a practice it likened to building houses in the current climate.
Although a recent report on equine welfare estimated that there could be 10,000 to 20,000 surplus horses in the country, pregnant mares and new foals can be seen in fields throughout the nation, according to ISPCA chief inspector Conor Dowling.
Mr Dowling said owners who continued to produce horses were irresponsible.
“I have had horse breeders tell me that they couldn’t give animals away for free and, in the same breath, tell me how many mares they have in foal. From an economic standpoint, this is akin to continuing to build houses in the current climate.
“But, of course, unwanted property cannot suffer like many of these foals will.
“The sad fact is that these young foals will be the first to suffer when the harsh weather returns next winter,” said Mr Dowling.
Just this week, the ISPCA took on five thoroughbred horses found in a malnourished condition in Co Offaly.
ISPCA inspector Brendan Hughes was contacted by gardaí who had been alerted to their plight. Despite being initially issued with instructions by gardaí to organise veterinary care and feeding, the owner had failed to comply sufficiently and the animals were seized.
On veterinary examination all five animals were found to be severely underweight and suffering from extensive rain-scald. They were also infested with parasites, both externally in the form of lice and internally with a heavy worm burden.
“These animals clearly needed intensive treatment,” Mr Hughes said, “and we are pleased to have been able to remove them to a place of safety where they can receive this much-needed care.”
The horses are now recuperating in an ISPCA rehabilitation centre.
The matter is under investigation, and all the ISPCA’s findings will be submitted to the Garda.