Ben Ware

Animal cruelty to farm animals

Fremont, NH

Jan. 29, 1998

Eight horses in varying stages of malnutrition and dehydration were removed from the Back Acres Ranch. For many years according to the police, they have had at least three complaints in the past. In each case the NH SPCA had given Ware only a verbal warning. 5 of the horsed have been taken to a rehab center and are being treated for malnutrition, parasite infestation, the hoof infection "thrush"' and some dental problems. When the veterinarian checked out one of the pony's teeth actually fell out. Their coats are packed in manure from lying down in their stall on inches of raw manure and urine. The vets estimate it will take six months to get the horses back into suitable condition.

All the horses were seized and after a 3-day trial, he was convicted on all counts of animal cruelty. He received a suspended sentence and no jail time. As a stipulation of no jail, he is never allowed to have anything to do with farm animals again.

References:

The New Hampshire Equine Humane Association

NH Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animal

Exeter District Court

Fremont Police and animal control officer