According to the municipality of Waldzell (Ried im Innkreis district in Upper Austria), the responsible district authority has been aware of animal abuse in the village since the end of last year. But nothing has changed for the poor animals since then, said a witness who informed animal welfare organization Pfotenhilfe.
“The photos and videos are alarming,” Pfotenhilfe boss Johanna Stadler is appalled. “It is molders that cause painful eczema on the wrists of horses that need urgent treatment! The dozens of Shire horses, some of which are kept permanently in deep marshes, are particularly susceptible to infection because of their long-legged fur, called metatarsals, because it mixture of mud, feces and urine sticks to the metatarsals.”
“animals keep breeding”
According to Stadler, the animals need immediate treatment: “You can’t get rid of the painful disease without going to a solid floor, shaving off the bullet armor and intensive, daily treatments with ointments and bandages. But apparently this has not happened so far and the animals continue to breed there, although there are already far too few stables and fortified pastures for the more than 70 horses, because witnesses have seen several foals.
The floor was soaked with urine
Pfotenhilfe also warns that the disease, if left untreated, can even be fatal as it can lead to blood poisoning. The photos also show a circus tent, part of which has already collapsed, which is completely unsuitable as a shelter as the ground is a urine-soaked mud pool, although dry, soft lying areas are required. Due to the collapsed tent poles and parts protruding from the ground, there is also a great risk of injury to the horses, which is why, according to the municipality, a ban on use has been in place for a long time.
No improvements
According to the district administration, there would be continuous official veterinary checks on site. However, weekly checks by several witnesses did not reveal any improvements until the very end.
“As the owner is obviously unable to remedy the situation on his own, the authorities must provide replacement accommodation as soon as possible, as well as suitable caretakers who, under the supervision of an equine veterinarian, will immediately take care of the suffering animals and relieve them of their pain.” says animal rights activist Stadler.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
