LOUISE MURRAY FROM RUNCORN FACES LIFE BAN AFTER HORRIFIC PONY NEGLECT IN FRODSHAM AND RUNCORN

Louise Murray, a resident of Runcorn, has been convicted for her role in the severe and prolonged neglect of a pony named Anjelica, which ultimately led to the animal's tragic death. Born around 1973 and residing at 13 Waterford Way in Runcorn, Murray's case drew significant attention from animal welfare authorities due to the heartbreaking circumstances surrounding the pony's suffering.

On the day of her court appearance, Murray was found guilty of causing unnecessary suffering to Anjelica between August 8 and August 29, 2013. The case was heard at Chester Magistrates Court, where it was revealed that Murray had kept the grey mare in a field on Manley Road in Frodsham, an area close to Runcorn. The investigation uncovered that the pony was left in a state of neglect, with her condition deteriorating over time due to her owner’s failure to provide adequate care.

Animal welfare officers from the RSPCA responded to a distress call reporting that a horse had collapsed. Upon arrival, they discovered Anjelica lying helplessly in a stable, unable to stand. The examination showed her ribs and hip bones were prominently visible, indicating severe emaciation. The pony was extremely weak, barely able to lift her head, and was found near two large buckets of water, which she lacked the strength to reach. The officers noted that her condition was dire and required immediate veterinary intervention.

Veterinary professionals were called to the scene, but sadly, the prognosis was grim. Due to her suffering and the extent of her illness, Anjelica was euthanized to prevent further pain. Post-mortem examinations revealed that she had been suffering from the effects of ragwort poisoning for an extended period. The toxic plant, often referred to as the 'yellow peril,' is notorious for causing irreversible liver damage in horses and ponies, leading to a slow, painful death. The examination of her body also showed signs of prolonged lying in soiled bedding, with staining and fraying on her right side, indicating she had been in that position for days.

Further analysis confirmed that her death was caused by ragwort toxicity, which had gone untreated due to Murray’s neglect. The case drew attention not only because of the tragic loss of the pony but also due to social media allegations suggesting Murray might be a serial animal abuser. These claims, circulating on Facebook, added to the public concern surrounding her treatment of animals.

RSPCA inspector Cara Challinor described the case as one of the most harrowing she had encountered in her career. She emphasized the heartbreaking nature of the pony’s inability to reach the water despite having access to it, highlighting the severity of her neglect. Inspector Challinor stressed the importance of awareness regarding the dangers of ragwort, which can cause slow and painful suffering if not properly managed. She criticized Murray for failing to seek veterinary help promptly when Anjelica fell ill, which could have potentially saved her.

In sentencing, Murray received a 12-month community order, was ordered to pay £560 in prosecution costs, and was banned for life from keeping animals. The case serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of neglect and the importance of responsible animal ownership, especially in areas like Runcorn and Frodsham where such incidents can have devastating effects on vulnerable animals.