Unfortunately, due to the severe weather we have seen a HUGE increase in concerns with equine welfare across Devon and Cornwall.
Unfortunately there are a number of issues, that although we feel may not be ideal for equines, they are not illegal so it is very hard to enforce anything, its more a case of offering advice to the pony owner and monitoring the pony to ensure the equines needs are met..... This is frustrating for both the welfare team and the caller.
Situations you may come across which are NOT illegal:
Wet or Muddy field - Yes, it is hard to see a horse/pony in a field of mud with no grass, but it is not a legal requirement to provide your equine with a lush grassy field.
Lack of Rug / Shelter - Most equines in the UK can live perfectly happily without a rug all year around, it is not a legal requirement to provide a rug or shelter for your equine. Most will find natural shelter from hedges trees etc.
Lack of food and water - It is not a legal requirement to provide these at ALL times, so, if you see a animal with no food and water, there is no direct action we can take other than offer advice to the equines owner and monitor to ensure the animal is being cared for and not suffering.
Tethering - It is legal to tether a horse providing it is done in the safest possible way, for example away from roads, banks cliffs or anything that may harm or cause danger to the equine.
Please bare in mind, if any of these situations are accompanied by another issue, such as injury or illness, this would be something we would want to know about, this will enable us to assist the equine. Our team is always on hand to discuss any situation or concern you have regarding Moorland ponies or Privately owned equines.
SWEP will ALWAYS do our very best to attend every call out within 24hours and we always have our phones ready to answer your queries, we would rather check your concerns out then leave any equines in need or any of our supporters in doubt.
Becky
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