Horse owners are being warned to regularly monitor the condition of their animals, after the RSPCA reported 43 cases of underweight horses in the Wyndham and Melton area.
In the last two years, RSPCA Victoria received more than 2000 horse cruelty reports, underweight horses made up almost half of those cases.
RSPCA Victoria team leader Michelle Green said it’s important to remain vigilant to changes in weight or health.
“If owners notice deterioration in the body condition of a horse, they should seek advice. It is not acceptable to allow a horse to be so underweight that they become weak and not able to stand.”
Owning a horse is a significant responsibility, the RSPCA said, and the animals require a substantial commitment of time, care and money to live healthy lives.
Horses need to eat a one per cent of their body weight and owners are obligated to provide horses with regular access to food and special care must taken as horses age.
“Like humans, as horses age their ability to digest feed diminishes, as their teeth deteriorate. Horses aged over 15 require additional feed and attention; RSPCA Victoria recommends consulting a veterinarian or nutritionist for advice on how to be best care for aged horses.”
Victorians are encouraged to ask for help if they can no longer provide the level of care their horses require.
There is no shame in surrendering a horse in order to provide them with a better chance at a good life, the RSPCA said anyone struggling to care for their horses can contact them for advice and assistance.
Under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1986, any person in charge of an animal is required to provide food, water and shelter, as well as appropriate husbandry and veterinary attention as needed.
