Two horses have been put down and more than 100 removed from a farm in Surrey after a large-scale RSPCA-led investigation yesterday (9 January).
The charity has confirmed that 204 animals were taken away in total, including 123 horses, eight donkeys and 59 dogs, owing to welfare concerns.
Two horses who were found collapsed at the site, in Ripley, were put down, as was one goat, but the RSPCA said the rest have been taken to animal centres.
H&H reported yesterday that equine and canine welfare charities were part of the operation, along with local authorities and Surrey Police. A large number of support vehicles had been sent to the site, including at least five large horseboxes.
A spokesman for the charity said: “On Wednesday (9 January) RSPCA officers joined Surrey Police to execute a warrant at a farm in Ripley, Surrey, under the Animal Welfare Act.
Continues below…
Major equine welfare operation ongoing at Surrey farm
The RSPCA, police and a number of equine welfare charities are involved in the investigation
Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round
“In the RSPCA-led operation, 204 animals were removed, including 123 horses, eight donkeys and 59 dogs, due to welfare concerns.
“The investigation is now ongoing so we can’t go into any further detail at this time.
“However, we would like to thank Surrey Police, Guildford Borough Council, Bucks and Surrey Trading Standards, Bransby Horses, Redwings, the Horse Trust, the Donkey Sanctuary, World Horse Welfare, Dogs Trust and the vets who attended for their assistance.”
For all the latest news analysis, competition reports, interviews, features and much more, don’t miss Horse & Hound magazine, on sale every Thursday.
In today’s (10 January) edition, you can also find our training special, including a schooling session with the eventing world champion Ros Canter, and we tell you how you can optimise your training. Plus, read our full report from Liverpool International and our careers special, on how to land your dream job and why it is never too late to find a role you love.
