A southern Tasmanian man has been banned from owning horses for five years after his neglect left two animals so badly injured they had to be put down.
The man pleaded guilty in the Hobart Magistrates Court last month to two counts of managing an animal in a manner reasonably likely to result in unreasonable and unjustifiable pain or suffering, and one count of animal cruelty.
The court fined him $5,000 plus court costs and disqualified him from having custody of any horse for five years.
RSPCA Tasmania received a complaint on May 29, 2025, about two horses with severely overgrown and split hooves.
Inspectors visited the property and found both horses had significant hoof problems.
A vet later confirmed the horses were suffering from laminitis, a painful condition affecting the hooves.
One horse also had a rotated pedal bone, pointing to severe and prolonged suffering.
Both horses were humanely euthanised on veterinary advice to prevent further pain.
RSPCA Tasmania chief inspector Jayden Stirrup said the case showed why owners must care for their animals properly and in good time.
“Laminitis is an extremely painful condition that requires prompt veterinary attention,” Stirrup said.
“Horse owners have a responsibility to ensure their animals receive appropriate hoof care and veterinary treatment when needed.”
“Sadly, in this case, the suffering experienced by these horses was so severe that euthanasia was the only humane option.”
RSPCA Tasmania urged the public to report any animal welfare concerns by calling 1300 139 947.
