Jarrow OAP banned from keeping horses after tethered cob found with chain embedded in neck
Vet says horse could have been suffering for up to two weeks.
An 83-year-old man has been banned from keeping horses after his tethered cob was found with a chain embedded in its neck.
A member of the public had alerted the RSPCA to report the animal, that was tethered to a stump on an industrial estate, needed assistance in November 2024.
Newcastle Crown Court heard a vet from the charity and the police attended and found the chain around the horse's neck had become embedded in its flesh, causing a deep wound and skin necrosis.
The vet said the animal could have been suffering for one to two weeks.
Owner Kenneth Le Blond, of Willow Grange, Jarrow, denied causing unnecessary suffering to an animal but was convicted by a jury after a trial.
Josh Hart, defending, told the court: "His position has not change, his position is and has always been he didn't notice the injury.
"He had noticed a behavioural change, and it was something he was monitoring."
Mr Hart said the animal was well nourished and added: "The horse gave him a reason to get out of bed."
Recorder Georgina Nolan sentenced Le Blond to a £285 fine and banned him keeping horses for five years.
The horse involved in the case will be confiscated by the RSPCA.