Horse ban for breeder over emaciated pony

AN international horse show judge and breeder from West Yorkshire has been banned from owning, dealing in or transporting horses for three years after admitting causing suffering to a pony.

David Hinde, 46, of Arlington Villas, Aberford, who breeds Dartmoor ponies, also admitted failing to meet the needs of 13 ponies by not investigating the causes of their poor condition.

RSPCA inspector Hannah Bryer said one Dartmoor pony was “literally at death’s door” .

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“He was severely emaciated, collapsed and unresponsive and we considered putting him to sleep there and then to end his suffering.

“He was placed on a drip at the scene and had to be moved to the transporter on a tarpaulin sheet. It was the most distressing thing I’ve seen in my career at the RSPCA.

“His recovery was difficult – he was in such a state that he was unable to stand unaided for over a month in veterinary care – but amazingly he is now back to full health.”

The cause was thought to be simple malnutrition and dehydration.

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In interview Hinde said the ponies belonged to his mother, the owner of Becca Farm at Aberford.

Beverley Magistrates’ Court heard that Hinde had to step down from his roles with pony societies because of the prosecution.

Hinde was ordered to pay a £200 fine and costs of £800. He is currently claiming benefits. The court heard he had been involved with showing and breeding since he was seven and had won all of the national competitions.

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