The Bloemfontein SPCA celebrates a victory in the Brandfort Magistrates Court. This after a case of animal cruelty was opened against Christel Van Rhyn and she was found guilty on charges of animal cruelty.
The case was opened after 6 horses were found on her property in Brandfort in a severely emaciated state.”
The horses found on the property had hardly any muscle mass on their bodies. The hips, spinal cord and ribs were all clearly showing” said Chief Inspector Reinet Meyer. The horses were further found in filthy conditions with an open sewage line running through the property. The horses further showed a multitude of medical conditions including kissing spine.
“I find it concerning that Miss Van Rhyn actively participates in equestrian sports. I believe that her continued participation in these equine sports led to the cruelty inflicted on these poor animals” Added Chief Inspector Reinet Meyer.
Christel Van Rhyn was found guilty in terms of Section 2(1)(a) of the Animal Protection Act and further was declared unfit to own a firearm and is banned from owning any horses for two years. She was fined R3000 or on default of payment 3 months direct imprisonment suspended for three years on condition that the accused is not convicted of animal cruelty.
