Rescued horses find new homes

Nearly all of them have since been adopted, and the rest all have pre-adoption meet-and-greets scheduled with their prospective owners.

RSPCA Victoria head of operations Tanya Drakopoulos said they were delighted and grateful for the community’s support.

“These horses arrived in our care in very poor condition, and it will be an extensive recovery process for many of them,” she said.

“Despite knowing all this, we’re delighted to have had such a positive response from the horse community, with many experienced horse owners offering to adopt these animals and nurse them back to health.”

Notices were issued regarding the welfare of some remaining animals at the property.

RSPCA Victoria chief inspector Michelle Green said the condition of the horses was shocking, but not unfamiliar.

“These horses were at immediate risk and needed to be removed from the property,” she said.

“The animals were in alarming condition, and this is unfortunately becoming a familiar sight for our inspectors.

“It is crucial that horse owners forward plan for adequate feed supplies, particularly in drought conditions, and to make serious considerations about the number of animals they can realistically take care of.

“RSPCA inspectors are dedicated to fighting animal cruelty across the state and ensuring they receive the care and treatment they need, and we’re grateful to those in the community who help us do our job by reporting animal cruelty when they see it.”

Anyone interested in adopting an animal from the RSPCA can view animal profiles at rspcavic.org/adopt-a-pet

RSPCA urged anyone with concerns about the welfare of animals to make a report to RSPCA Victoria at rspcavic.org/who-to-call/ or by calling 9224 2222.