SPCA inspects military horses
2012-12-21 20:40
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Johannesburg
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Johannesburg - SPCA inspectors have looked at 50 horses
kept at a South African National Defence Force (SANDF) base in Potchefstroom,
following a court order, the SPCA said on Friday.
"The SPCA received full co-operation and assistance
from the SANDF at the base during Wednesday's inspection," spokesperson
Wendy Wilson said in a statement.
Two inspectors from the SPCA looked at the animals.
Concerns such as hoof care, nutrition, shelter, medical care and injury
treatment were discussed.
The army promptly dealt with any injuries or concerns.
The South Gauteng High Court in Johannesburg ruled on
Tuesday that the society be granted access to SANDF base in Potchefstroom, to
inspect the horses kept there.
The court order allowed the SPCA to confiscate evidence
for the purpose of prosecution and, if necessary, take the horses away to
prevent cruelty or suffering.
"The securing of a permanent location that can
adequately house the number of horses needed for the mounted division is
underway," said Wilson.
"The necessity of having sufficient numbers of
adequately skilled personnel... attending to the care of the horses is
paramount, and is now understood by all role players and is being
addressed."
She said while the horses' welfare was jeopardised during
the initial re-establishment of the mounted division, the SANDF intended
working with the SPCA to ensure the horses received adequate care.
- SAPA
