Somerville horse rescuer Cathryn Kelly faces 41 cruelty charges over starving claims after RSPCA raid
A SOMERVILLE animal rescuer who allegedly starved 18 horses has faced court on more than 40 cruelty charges.
South East
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A SOMERVILLE animal rescuer who allegedly starved 18 horses has faced court on more than 40 cruelty charges.
Cathryn Kelly, 53, appeared at Frankston Magistrates’ Court yesterday, with her case adjourned until next month.
Court documents seen by the Leader stated Ms Kelly’s rural property was raided by the RSPCA last April after a tip-off from a member of the public.
Inspectors found nearly 50 horses on the land, most of them rescued from sale yards, with a large number of them allegedly being “significantly underweight”.
>> STARVING HORSES SEIZED FROM MORNINGTON PENINSULA PROPERTY
Inspectors stated there was a “gross undersupply” of feed on the property.
One of the horses, named Min, was allegedly so badly malnourished that it had to be put down by a vet, as it was recumbent and unable to stand.
Another 17 horses were seized by the RSPCA because of fears for their welfare.
They were assessed as “body condition 1.5 out of 5”, with skin problems, untreated leg wounds, sand in the gut, rain scald, lameness, lice, anaemia, infections, bowel dysfunction and weight loss – conditions the RSPCA believe are consistent with being starved.
Two had to be later euthanised due to pre-existing medical conditions and “poor prognosis”, while the remaining 15 horses have now recovered, thanks to medical treatment and proper feeding.
In court Ms Kelly said she needed more time to get legal representation, and she would be disputing many of the charges.
RSPCA prosecutor Daniel Bode agreed to the adjournment, saying there were more discussions to be had with Ms Kelly regarding thecharges, and the length and conditions that may be imposed on any potential animal management ban.
Magistrate Rodney Crisp adjourned the case until May 16.