WOMAN BANNED FOR NEGLECT AFTER HER TWO HORSES COULD NOT BE SAVED
A woman whose neglect resulted in her two horses being found in a state described as "heartbreaking" and subsequently euthanised has received a suspended prison sentence.Stacey Price, 39, from Stanbury Place in Cleobury Mortimer, was also barred from owning or caring for horses for a period of five years.
She admitted to a single animal welfare offence during a hearing at Worcester Magistrates’ Court on June 9.
Concerns about the welfare of two horses, named Doc and Ludo, owned by Price, were reported to the RSPCA and World Horse Welfare in November 2024.
These concerns included infrequent attention to the animals, which had led to their poor health, noticeable weight loss, and skin problems, according to an RSPCA representative.
Investigators from both organizations visited the property in Kidderminster where the horses were kept.
RSPCA animal rescue officer Rachel Ward described her findings: Doc, a gelding, was found in a stable where his ribs, hips, and spine were clearly visible, along with a noticeable rib shelf, and he exhibited extensive rain scald with scabs and greenish discharge from sores.
Ludo was located nearby in a field and was also evaluated to be in poor condition.
An equine veterinarian examined the animals and confirmed that they faced significant health risks.
Both horses were placed in the care of the charities, after being found to carry heavy tapeworm loads.
The veterinarian’s statement noted that Doc was likely experiencing hunger and pain from his skin ailments, with his nutritional needs unmet for several weeks.
The widespread rain scald was deemed untreated, and Ludo showed signs of malnutrition and hunger, indicating that proper worming protocols had not been followed.
A World Horse Welfare field officer expressed deep concern over the horses’ state, describing Doc’s condition as "absolutely heartbreaking," noting his extreme thinness and weakness, and pointing out that the untreated skin infection could have been avoided with proper care.
The RSPCA added that, unfortunately, due to their ongoing health complications, both horses had to be euthanised, despite the efforts to rescue them.
During court proceedings, it was highlighted that Price did not intend to harm the horses and believed that a third party was caring for them.
She was sentenced to a 12-week prison term, suspended for a year, and banned from owning or caring for horses for five years — a penalty she cannot appeal.
Additionally, she was ordered to complete 150 hours of unpaid work, pay a victim surcharge of £154, and cover legal costs of £300.
