Pair banned from keeping animals following RSPCA investigation

William Braddock and Tina Price have both admitted offences against 11 equines after the RSPCA conducted an investigation into the treatment of their horses

In January 2020, RSPCA inspector Laura Baker found a herd of horses in poor condition while she was responding to a different welfare concern. The horses were underweight and eight hadn’t received treatment for lice, rain scald and hoof issues. Their owner, William Braddock, also failed to provide dental care and parasite control.

With support from World Horse Welfare, the RSPCA was able to take on the horses involved. However, a month later Inspector Baker raised concerns regarding more horses kept nearby. The other horses’ owner, Tina Price, would admit to causing unnecessary suffering to two of the horses found, who hadn’t received veterinary care for their lameness issues.

William Braddock was sentenced to 12 weeks imprisonment and suspended for 18 months, as well as 20 rehabilitation days and a 56-day curfew, where he won’t be able to leave his home between 6pm and 6am. He was banned from keeping animals for five years and received a £500 fine.

Tina Price received a 12-month community order, an order to undertake 40 hours of unpaid voluntary work and 20 rehabilitation days. She’s been banned from keeping animals for four years and must pay a £500 fine.

Most of the equines involved have recovered well and are being made available for rehoming. RSPCA inspector Laura Baker said: “This was a complex operation involving a large number of horses and we’re really grateful to World Horse Welfare for their support, including taking on a number of the animals. It’s another great example of what we can do together for animal welfare.

“Sadly, this case reminds us of what can go wrong for horses if they’re neglected and not cared for properly. Unchecked breeding, a lack of worming and insufficient food supplies during such cold conditions were all at play here. We’re just relieved we were able to intervene, secure justice for these animals and help many of these horses to go onto a second chance of happiness.”

For more information, visit rspca.org.uk