Emaciated racehorse was tied to fence and covered in sores

A seven-year old racehorse who was rescued by ISPCA inspectors at Ballinasloe Fair last October was tied to a fence, in an emaciated condition and covered in sores.

The rescue of the ex-racehorse called Dash has prompted the ISPCA to call on the government to review the Equine Identification Regulations and the process around transfer of ownership of equines. Currently, the responsibility is with the buyer to update ownership and not the seller.

ISPCA Chief Inspector Conor Dowling said: “We would urge all horse-owners to consider the welfare of their horse not only when it is their care but to also think about what might happen if they sell it on, and to do all they can to guarantee the welfare of their horse in the future”.

The ISPCA believes that the horse racing industry, and all those involved in it, have a responsibility to the horses involved in racing throughout their lives and should take all steps possible to ensure that horses do not fall through the cracks and end up in a situation like Dash did.

Through his microchip, it was established that Dash was on the racecourse as recently as July of last year, and had won over €20,000 in his racing career. Further enquiries revealed that, like many racehorses, he was sold on when he was not racing well. Sadly, for Dash, he passed through a number of hands, and it is believed that he was used for trotting.

As his ownership record was not updated, efforts to establish who had been responsible for his lack of care prior to his rescue have so far proved unsuccessful.

As well as being emaciated, Dash was very foot sore but once in ISPCA care he received farrier treatment and new shoes, a much-needed rug and a nutritious diet. He was soon much better in himself and sounder and has gained condition in a short space of time.

The ISPCA urges the public to report any suspicions of animal cruelty or neglect to its National Animal Cruelty Helpline by calling 0818 515 515, emailing helpline@ispca.ie or report online here: https://ispca.ie/report-cruelty/. They point out that it is incumbent on everyone to work together to continue to protect Ireland’s most vulnerable animals and bring those who harm them to justice.

Animal Welfare Inspectors work tirelessly in challenging situations rescuing vulnerable animals that are suffering just like Dash. The ISPCA has renewed its appeal for members of the public to help animals in need by making a life-saving donation to support their vital rescue and rehabilitation work.  Visit: https://ispca.ie/donations/