NATASHA WALLER FROM LOUGHBOROUGH ABANDONS HORSE TO STARVE IN SHEPSHED FIELD

In a heartbreaking case of animal neglect, Natasha Waller, a resident of Shepshed near Loughborough, was found guilty of causing unnecessary suffering to her former racehorse, Maisie. The distressing incident unfolded over several years, culminating in the tragic death of the horse due to severe neglect.

Waller, born around 1992 and living on Ashby Road in Shepshed, purchased Maisie, a thoroughbred racehorse, during the summer of 2014. Initially, she appeared to care for the animal, but over the subsequent years, her visits became infrequent and neglectful. By the time the RSPCA intervened, Maisie was in a dire state, with ribs clearly visible beneath her skin and her body covered in dirt and filth.

The horse was found abandoned in a field with no access to hay or water, and only hedges providing minimal shelter from the elements. The conditions were so poor that the horse was left to endure the harsh weather without proper care. Despite efforts to improve her health, Maisie’s condition deteriorated rapidly, leading to her being put to sleep due to her suffering.

RSPCA inspector Alison North recounted the distressing details of the case. She explained that concerns for Maisie’s welfare first arose in April 2016, prompting the RSPCA to work closely with Waller, offering advice on proper feeding and care to help the horse regain weight and health. Waller initially appeared to follow this guidance, which gave hope for Maisie’s recovery.

However, by October 2016, the situation worsened again, and the RSPCA received further reports indicating that Maisie’s condition had declined significantly. An immediate visit revealed the horse to be severely emaciated and suffering. Despite veterinary efforts, Maisie could not be saved and was euthanized on welfare grounds. Inspector North described the case as particularly upsetting, noting that Maisie was one of the thinnest horses she had ever seen, a stark reminder of the devastating effects of neglect.

Inspector North expressed her disappointment that Waller had initially followed advice but later ceased to care for Maisie properly, leading to her suffering and death. She emphasized the importance of public vigilance in reporting animal cruelty, acknowledging that the RSPCA relies heavily on community reports to intervene in such cases.

As a consequence of her actions, Natasha Waller was sentenced to eight weeks in prison, suspended for two years, and ordered to pay a surcharge of £150. Additionally, she received a ban from keeping any equines for seven years, a restriction that will expire in August 2024. This case highlights the ongoing issue of animal neglect in the region and the critical role of animal welfare organizations in protecting vulnerable animals from suffering.