Scots woman given five-year ban on keeping horses

An Aberdeenshire woman who subjected a pony to shocking levels of neglect has been given a five-year ban on keeping horses.

Gail Vines, of Kinnear Square, Laurencekirk, pled guilty to causing unnecessary suffering through failure to provide veterinary treatment or a suitable safe environment for her pony, Eve.

The 64-year-old, who was described by the Scottish SPCA as “well-known” to its officers, was sentenced at Aberdeen Sheriff Court on 22 July 2021.

Scottish SPCA inspector Fiona McKenzie said she was “shocked” by the level of suffering inflicted on one pony called Eve.

“We attended Sunnyside Farm in Drumoak on February 28, 2021, after a member of the public called our animal helpline with concerns about Vines’ ponies,” she explained.

“On attending we noticed the field was in a state of disrepair with numerous hazards that the ponies could become injured by such as loose fence posts and electric fencing wire on the ground.”

Officers found Eve standing alone and emaciated, covered in lice and skin lesions.

“Her hip bones and spine were clearly protruding,” said Ms McKenzie, “she was so weak, she had no energy and was listless.

Officers found Eve standing alone and emaciated, covered in lice and skin lesions.

“She was suffering from severe diarrhoea, which was later found to be caused by a heavy worm burden.

Welcoming the ban, Ms McKenzie said: “We are pleased that Vines has been banned from keeping horses for five years and hope she will seriously consider her ability to look after any animal in future.

“We have had countless dealings with her and tried on several occasions to provide her with guidance and advice on how to care for her animals.

“Vines had received advice and assistance from the Scottish SPCA previous to this and should have prevented or recognised issues with her horses and addressed them.

“It would have taken some time for Eve to get into this condition. She is incredibly lucky that she was found when she was, as had she not received treatment she would have died.”

Eve is now doing recovering at one of the SSPCA’s animal rescue and rehoming centres.

If anyone is concerned about an animal, they can contact our confidential animal helpline on 03000 999 999.

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