ISPCA seeking help to buy hay for horses

The ISPCA is seeking the help of the public in preventing the deaths of abandoned or neglected horses.
Just €4 a month would make a big difference, says the society, which has warned that many equines will starve this winter.
“Neglect by owners who have not provided adequate feed and shelter, or have abandoned them during the harsh winter months are the main causes,” the inspectors have found.
As a result, the ISPCA is asking the Irish public who care about horses to text Hay to 50300 to donate €4 or make a monthly gift of €4 through its website (www.ispca.ie) which will buy a bale of hay and feed a neglected horse.
ISPCA Chief Inspector Conor Dowling said: “Last year the ISPCA saw a dramatic increase in the number of starving animals requiring the assistance of our Inspectors.
“The number of equines admitted to our rehabilitation Centres increased by over 100% compared with the previous year.  
“In 2013, the ISPCA received and responded to 1,933 equine distress calls related to cruelty, neglect or abuse to horses, ponies, foals and donkeys.  We are regularly stretched beyond capacity but, with your help, we can continue our vital work and help the most urgent cases that are in critical need of veterinary care”.