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Horse ban for couple who let Spirit suffer
Cruelty wasn't deliberate, says RSPCA
A Littlecote couple have been banned from keeping horses in a case brought by the RSPCA.
John King, 51, and Amy King, 60, were found guilty at Aylesbury Magistrates' Court of causing unnecessary suffering to a pony named Spirit.
They were also fined 2,400 each and both were ordered to pay 2,150 in costs, as well as a 15 court surcharge.
Spirit, a grey pony aged about 22, was removed from the couple's garden in May last year after a vet agreed with the RSPCA that he was suffering.
The pony was emaciated and his hips, spine and ribs were all prominent.
He had breathing problems and sores on his body, one of which was an untreated bite from another horse. He also had dental problems and a high worm count.
The court heard that since being rescued, Spirit has gained 40kgs with the right treatment and nutrition.
The Kings, in mitigation, said that they had done their best for the pony.
RSPCA chief inspector Rob Skinner said: "I am pleased with this sentence as this pony was clearly in need of veterinary treatment for his medical conditions and had suffered considerably as a result.
"Although this case was not one of deliberate suffering, there was a lack of basic knowledge on how to look after horses.
"We would strongly advise that anyone taking on a horse or other animal knows how to care for them properly and seeks advice if they run into difficulties, otherwise you will not be fulfilling your legal obligations as an owner and may be prosecuted."
Spirit is now in the permanent care of a horse charity, where he has made a good recovery.
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Weather for Leighton Buzzard
Tuesday 22 May 2012
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Sunny spells
Temperature: 10 C to 24 C
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