THE DSPCA has issued a reminder to landowners and tenants who keep horses on their land of their legal obligations towards animal welfare.
The reminder follows the removal of two horses last month, which were found in an emaciated state at premises in South Dublin. One of the horses was subsequently destroyed due to its condition.
According to the DSPCA, who have already dealt with 284 horses so far this year, there has been a significant increase in reports of horses being abandoned by owners since January.
The DSPCA said it is seeing a substantial number of cases where owners, either unable or unwilling to pay livery charges, have left the horses with the livery service who in turn cannot afford to feed and care for the horses given the growing numbers.
Highlighting the two most recent cases, the DSPCA said that the two animals removed were not microchipped, which meant tracing any previous owner and holding them accountable was impossible.
“In such cases where ownership of horses cannot be established, landowners and tenants are legally responsible for the wellbeing of animals found on their lands and are liable for prosecution in circumstances of neglect,
? a spokesperson said.
Under current legislation non-registration of an equine premises, including land, is a prosecutable offence. That means owners or renters of land used to keep horses must register with the Department of Agriculture. Registration with the Department of Agriculture is free of charge.
Land owners or tenants are also responsible for the wellbeing of any animal left on the land or at any premises registered to them. And if a case of neglect is found they may be deemed to be the legal guardian of the animals unless they can prove otherwise.
“They should also ensure planned animals kept on the land are microchipped and have an official equine passport,
? the DSPCA spokesperson added.
“Any horses found without microchips can be seized by local authorities. If you have a horse in livery or you are paying someone to look after your horses, please check they are a registered premises and that you have your horse microchipped and that you have an official equine passport.
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More information on horse ownership and horse passports can be found on www.dspca.ie