DANIEL BANHAM FROM WOKINGHAM SENTENCED FOR HORSE ABUSE IN FORDINGBRIDGE

Daniel Banham, a resident of Carters Hill Park traveller site in Carters Hill, Billingbear, Wokingham RG40 5QL, was recently convicted of severe animal neglect involving a young horse in Fordingbridge, Hampshire. The case drew significant attention from the RSPCA after multiple calls raised concerns about the condition of the horse, which was found suffering from extensive skin lesions and signs of neglect.

Authorities responded promptly to the reports, leading to an inspection by veterinary professionals. The horse, an unnamed colt, was discovered with crusty, dry, and inflamed skin covering large portions of its body. The lesions were painful to the touch, and the animal appeared dehydrated, malnourished, and in a state of significant distress. The severity of the condition indicated prolonged neglect and inadequate care.

Following the discovery, the horse was officially signed over to the RSPCA, which has since been working to ensure its recovery and future rehoming. The veterinary examination confirmed that the horse was suffering from the consequences of poor management, including dehydration, malnutrition, and a painful skin condition. The vet’s report also highlighted the presence of severe liver disease, which posed a life-threatening risk to the animal.

When questioned about the horse’s skin condition, Banham claimed he believed it was rain scald, a common skin issue in horses caused by prolonged exposure to wet conditions. He stated that he had applied coconut oil to the lesions, believing it would help. However, the vet’s report sharply criticized this approach, noting that the application of coconut oil had exacerbated the horse’s suffering. The report explained that the oil increased the sun’s heat on the already damaged skin, intensifying the pain and delaying proper treatment.

RSPCA Inspector Tina Ward, who led the investigation, expressed her concern about the case. She emphasized the importance of seeking professional veterinary care for animals in distress, warning that owners have a duty to ensure their pets and livestock receive appropriate treatment. Inspector Ward stated, “Our plea to all animal owners is to make sure they always receive care and treatment from veterinary experts when they need it. They are completely reliant on their owners to ensure their needs are met and they are kept safe and healthy. Owning an animal is a privilege — and ensuring appropriate veterinary care is a key part of the responsibility we have towards them. It’s so sad that, in this instance, that responsibility was not met.”

As a result of the conviction, Banham was sentenced to a suspended eight-week prison term for 12 months. Additionally, he was ordered to complete 20 days of rehabilitation activities, pay costs of £300, and a victim surcharge of £154. Furthermore, he received an eight-year ban from keeping horses, a measure intended to prevent similar neglect in the future.