RSPCA called to show after horse collapses

The RSPCA has been called to a show at Houghton Hall after a horse fell over in the warm-up.

Poor condition

It was during an unaffiliated showjumping event that the charity received two calls – one from the organisers of the show and one from another competitor – regarding the welfare of a horse in “very poor condition”.

Houghton Hall released a statement on Facebook apologising to competitors and spectators for the interruption caused by the incident.

“During the course of this competition a horse in very poor condition was brought to our attention. This horse was in the warm-up arena and was seen to fall over, by a number of competitors.”

A spokesperson at Houghton Hall said the equestrian centre takes horse welfare “extremely seriously”, which is why they decided to call in the RSPCA.

Serious case

“This was a serious case which is now in the hands of the authorities,” they said.

“Said person is not welcome at Houghton hall at anytime, and I sincerely hope other venues take this stance with her as well.”

The RSPCA told H&C that they are “working with the horse’s owner and a vet to ensure the horse’s welfare”.