THE DSPCA has today been inundated with an unprecedented number of calls relating to abandoned horses in the Greater Dublin Area.
So far today, DSPCA inspectors have attended 12 calls, dealing with over 20 horses abandoned in open spaces in the Ringsend, Raheny, Tallaght, Inchicore, Bluebell and Clondalkin areas.
These animals are not injured or sick but have simply been abandoned or “tied up to graze” in open areas such as outside schools or on public green spaces.
The DSPCA has stressed that horses can only be grazed/housed on property which has been registered with the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine. Owners are also required to possess a valid Horse Licence and Horse Passport.
The animal charity pointed out that stray horses can be seized by a local authority under the Control of Horses Act 1996. Some of the reasons for seizure include:
1. If horses are found wandering on public land.
2. If horses are on private land without permission from the landowner.
3. If horses cause danger to property or persons.
4. If horses cause a nusiance.
5. If horses are stabled in a front or rear garden.
6. Unlicenced horses.
There are substantial penalties for breaches of the regulations, including a ban from owning horses and fines.
DSPCA spokesperson Gillian Bird said: “We hope this is not a repeat of the horse situation we dealt with a few years ago. With summer approaching there may be young people out there who are thinking of getting a horse or pony and we are asking them to think before taking on the commitment of owning a horse.”
If you have concerns about a horse or pony tethered or abandoned on public open spaces, please contact your local authority’s Control of Horses Section.