JODIE GEARING FROM FAREHAM CONVICTED FOR HORSE NEGLECT IN FAREHAM

Jodie Gearing, born on October 24, 1977, and residing on Fayre Road in Fareham PO16 0UB, was found guilty in 2021 of neglecting her horse, Olivia, by leaving her in a severely compromised state. The case highlights serious concerns about animal welfare and the responsibilities of horse owners in the Fareham area.

According to reports, Gearing failed to provide adequate care for Olivia, who was suffering from extreme malnutrition and dehydration. The neglect was evident on the land where Olivia was kept, which lacked sufficient grazing due to poor grass cover and did not offer any supplementary feed to support the horse’s nutritional needs. The field’s water source was equally inadequate; the only available water was contaminated with debris and green algae, making it unfit for consumption.

Veterinary examination revealed that Olivia was in a dire state, suffering from dehydration and poor body condition. The vet’s findings confirmed that the horse was in a critical condition, and unfortunately, the extent of neglect was so severe that Olivia could not be saved. The neglect was compounded by Gearing’s own social media posts, where she boasted about how “spoiled” her horse was, which starkly contrasted with the reality of Olivia’s suffering.

Animal welfare authorities, including RSPCA Inspector Maia Corbett, investigated the case. Inspector Corbett emphasized the importance of responsible horse ownership, stating, “Caring for horses is a huge responsibility. Those caring for animals also have a legal responsibility to seek veterinary treatment for animals when they require it. It is never acceptable to leave an animal to suffer.”

As a result of her neglect, Gearing faced a series of penalties. She was sentenced to perform 200 hours of unpaid community work, attend 80 days of rehabilitation activities, and pay fines, costs, and charges totaling £490. Additionally, she was disqualified from keeping horses for a period of five years, a ban that will expire in March 2026.

This case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of proper animal care and the legal consequences of neglect, especially within the Fareham community where the incident took place.