December 2, 2009

Ryan the Clydesdale should have been a big strapping lad, but RSPCA inspectors found him skinny and with teeth trouble that gave him eating problems.

Ryan is now happy and healthy in the care of The Horse Trust, where he will spend the rest of his days.

However, his former owner, Karl Walde, 50, has been banned from keeping equids for 10 years after he admitted causing unnecessary suffering to Ryan, in a case brought by the RSPCA.

Walde, of Shipton-under-Wychwood, was also £750 fine and ordered to undertake 200 hours of community service.

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

The defendant claimed that he was having financial problems as the reason for him 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 trust's dental technician and farrier and now has four trimmed and healthy hooves.

Charli Pardon, head groom at the 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."