Mandurah couple accused of starving horse in South West

A Mandurah couple have been charged after allegedly starving their horse.

RSPCA WA attended the couple's then property in Scott River East, near Nannup, on July 22 after a report from a member of the public.

The inspector found a 16-year-old chestnut thoroughbred mare in a faeces-ridden paddock at the back of the house.

The horse was in poor condition, with her ribs, hips and spine clearly visible. 

In the absence of adequate food, trees and fence posts around the paddock had been chewed and eaten.

The only available water was in a plastic trough filled with rubbish. 

A vet exam at the property found the horse was dehydrated, visibly emaciated, and had muscle wastage due to prolonged starvation.

The horse was seized by RSPCA WA, and received IV fluids and medication before being removed from the property. 

When questioned, the female accused said the couple were in the process of moving house.

She admitted nobody had been at the property for over a week.

The couple, who now live in Mandurah, have been charged with animal cruelty.

The charge will be heard in Manjimup Magistrates Court on March 2. 

The maximum penalty for a charge of animal cruelty is a $50,000 fine and five years in jail. 

The RSPCA relies on the community to report incidents of suspected cruelty and neglect.

Report cruelty 24/7 on 1300 CRUELTY (1300 278 358) or at rspcawa.org.au