A WOMAN caused unnecessary suffering to someone else's horse after returning a malnourished thoroughbred. 

Suzanne Obrey, of Martley Road in Worcester, was banned from owning horses for ten years at Worcester Magistrates Court after admitting to unnecessary suffering charges.

The 44-year-old had returned nine-year-old Thoroughbred - named Chocolate Box - to his owners after looking after him as part of a loan agreement in December 2023

But Chocolate Box was returned underweight and with ulcers and matted hair.

The horse had damaged skin. The horse had damaged skin. (Image: RSPCA) After calling a vet to examine him, the owners contacted the RSPCA to investigate further.

Obrey was given a 12-month community order, which required her to carry out 100 hours of unpaid work, pay costs of £400, and pay a victim surcharge of £114.

 Obrey cannot appeal the court's decision for five years.

Chocolate Box's owners said in a statement read out in court on Friday, November 15 : "He had poor muscling over his body, with a condition score equating to very thin, emaciated, with little fat cover.

"The skin over his back and hindquarters was ulcerated and matted with hair.

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"Hardened, painful scabs were present on his hind limbs, and there was scurf and dermatitis present along the neck, abdomen and his legs were filled with fluid and uncomfortable/

“In my opinion, Chocolate Box was caused unnecessary suffering, caused by severe untreated skin lesions and malnutrition - the horse’s needs had not been met.”

The court heard how Obrey was apologetic and accepted that she should have taken the horse to the vet sooner.

She said she loves animals and did her best but it was due to incompetent care and was not deliberate.

After sentencing, RSPCA Inspector Suzi Smith said: "It is very sad that Chocolate Box was caused to suffer as he did.

"Sadly, we do see ex-racehorses fall into the hands of people who lack the knowledge, finances, or infrastructure to meet the needs of this type of horse.

“Horses may lose weight slowly, and when you see a horse every day, some people may find it hard to see a weight decline.

"Observation and daily checks are vital, especially in winter when rugs or thick winter coats might hide a decline in body condition.

Chocolate Box recovered under veterinary treatment and is back in the care of his owners.