Margaret River woman charged with alleged animal cruelty after October 10 visit to Cowaramup

A 40-year-old Margaret River woman is set to face court on charges she neglected a miniature pony that was found after a complaint from the public. Esther O’Meagher’s miniature pony was seized by RSPCA WA after the animal was allegedly found in Cowaramup in an overgrown paddock without access to water, hunched over and struggling to remain upright. A subsequent veterinarian inspection on October 10 last year allegedly found the pony’s hooves were excessively overgrown due to chronic neglect. An RSPCA spokesperson said the horse was taken due to alleged animal welfare offences. “She also found he was allegedly suffering from laminitis: a condition causing inflammation inside the hoof which would have been present for at least six months,” the spokesperson said. “The vet allegedly advised the pony was in extreme pain and required immediate treatment.” The animal was given pain relief and moved to a care facility. Ms O’Meagher was charged under sections 19(1) and 19(3)(h) of the Animal Welfare Act 2002. RSPCA will allege the pony suffered harm which could have been alleviated by taking reasonable steps. The maximum penalty was a $50,000 fine or potentially five years in jail. The charge will be heard in Busselton Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday, March 7. RSPCA said the matter came as a result of a call from public and encouraged residents to make reports on 1300 278 358 or at rspcawa.org.au.