Lesley Randell, from Carabooda, surrendered her pony to the RSPCA on May 25, 2011.
When RSPCA inspectors arrived at her property in 2011, they noticed her pony, ‘Little Man,’ was having difficulty walking.
‘Little Man’ was taken to RSPCA’s Malaga headquarters for examination, where he was found to have overgrown hooves and a matted tail, which suggested he spent a lot of time on the ground.
He was then examined by specialist equine veterinarians, who found the pony had several injuries, including that it was unable to fully extend one leg.
An RSPCA spokesman said a decision was made to euthanase the pony on humane grounds, because there was no cure for his condition.
He said a post-mortem revealed ‘Little Man’ suffered from severe degenerative joint disease and osteoarthritis in both shoulders, which likely caused him excruciating pain.
In Joondalup Magistrate's Court today, Ms Randell was found guilty of animal cruelty, fined $2000 and banned from owning horses.
In her sentencing remarks, the Magistrate said the offence was “very serious” and deserved prosecution.
RSPCA chief executive David van Ooran said it had been a particularly sad case for inspectors, who were pleased to see a permanent ban handed down.
(The West Australian - June 14, 2013)
