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| The Realities of Backyard Abuse |
| What it looks like : |
| Animal abuse can occur anywhere - from backyard pastures, to a private or public boarding stable. Whenever a horse owner fails to properly care for a horse, or cares for it erratically, there is a potential risk for abuse and neglect. |
| Some of the signs of backyard neglect include : |
| * Unusual thin, ribby * lack of condition - dull coat & glazed eyes * untended & overgrown hooves * lethargic manner |
| Failure to provide proper medical care is also a form of backyard abuse. Symptoms of animals in need of veterinarian's care include : |
| * limping (any form of lameness) or extreme stiffness * reluctant to move * a "sawhorse" stance - front lets will be extended (signs of founder) * any unusual discharge from the nose, mouth, eyes, or wound * weakness or distress |
| Beating and overworking are also forms of backyard abuse. Symptoms of an overworked animal include : |
| * cuts & welts (marks) * spur marks * tack sores * extreme fear, depression and distrust * weakness or distress |
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| What You Can Do : |
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| If you have reason to believe that an animal is in distress, contact your local shelter that handles that type of animal, or as a last resort, the police (Sherriff, State Police). When you report a potential animal case to the authorities, give as complete a description of the animal(s) as possible and the date and time you observed the animal. Animal control agencies will also need the exact address of the said animal(s) in order to investigate. Two cautionary notes : 1. Never trespass on private property, and ; 2. If you are not knowledgeable about that particular type of animal, be aware that animals may vary in size, and body condition, and may be already under a veterinarian's care. When reporting a case, do not be afraid to give your name. The authorities should not use your name without your permission. Once you do inititate an investigation, follow up, to make sure the situation has been investigated and resloved. |
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