SUZANNE OBREY HORSE ABUSE IN ST JOHNS: WORSER'S CRUELTY REVEALED

Suzanne Obrey, also known as Suzanne Robinson, born around 1970 and residing at 53 Martley Road in St Johns, Worcester, has been convicted of severe animal neglect that resulted in the suffering of a horse named Chocolate Box. The case highlights the tragic neglect and mistreatment that can occur within the equine community, especially involving horses that are often overlooked or misunderstood.

In December 2023, Obrey returned the nine-year-old thoroughbred horse, Chocolate Box, to his owners after having been entrusted with his care under a loan agreement. However, upon his return, the horse was found to be in a dire state. He was significantly underweight, with a body condition that was described as emaciated, and exhibited multiple skin ulcerations and matted hair, indicating prolonged neglect and poor health management.

The owners, concerned about the horse’s condition, promptly called in a veterinarian to assess his health. The veterinarian’s examination confirmed the severity of the neglect, prompting the owners to contact the RSPCA for further investigation. The distressing findings were detailed in a statement presented to the court, where the owners described Chocolate Box’s physical state. They reported that the horse had poor muscle tone across his body, with a condition score indicating extreme thinness and a lack of sufficient fat reserves. The skin over his back and hindquarters was ulcerated, matted with hair, and covered with hardened, painful scabs. Additionally, the horse’s hind limbs were affected by dermatitis and filled with fluid, causing discomfort and pain.

The owners expressed their concern that Chocolate Box had endured unnecessary suffering due to untreated skin lesions and malnutrition, which had severely compromised his well-being. They emphasized that his needs had not been adequately met, leading to a prolonged period of suffering that could have been prevented with proper care.

Following the court proceedings, RSPCA Inspector Suzi Smith commented on the case, expressing her sadness over the horse’s suffering. She highlighted the unfortunate reality that many ex-racehorses, like Chocolate Box, often fall into the hands of owners lacking the necessary knowledge, resources, or infrastructure to care for them properly. Inspector Smith pointed out that weight loss in horses can be gradual and difficult to notice on a daily basis, especially during winter months when thick coats or rugs can conceal a decline in body condition. She stressed the importance of regular observation and daily checks to prevent such cases of neglect.

Fortunately, with veterinary treatment, Chocolate Box made a recovery and was returned to the care of his owners. However, Suzanne Obrey faced legal consequences for her actions. She was sentenced to a 12-month community order, which includes 100 hours of unpaid work. Additionally, she was ordered to pay costs of £400 and a victim surcharge of £154. As part of her sentence, she is banned from keeping horses for ten years, although she has the right to appeal after five years, with the ban set to expire in November 2034.

This case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of responsible animal ownership and the need for vigilance in monitoring the health and well-being of horses, especially those in the care of individuals who may lack the necessary expertise or resources.