MEDIA RELEASE OCTOBER 2012

Farmer ignored bull with missing hoof

On 1 September 2011 an SPCA Inspector discovered a brown and white Hereford bull with its right hind hoof completely missing on the property of Peter Coleman in Hunua, Auckland.

The Inspector called a large animal Veterinarian who examined the bull and stated that the hoof was lost as a result of traumatic injury, such as becoming entangled in fence wire. The limb would have taken several weeks to die and fall off, depending on the severity of the initial injury.

Coleman arrived and confirmed that the bull had become trapped in a fence a month or so ago and the foot had fallen off within that last few days. He stated the bull had received no veterinarian treatment.

“The bull would have experienced continued pain since the initial injury,” says Bob Kerridge, SPCA Auckland Executive Director.

“In addition to the obvious pain, the bull would have been experiencing pain and discomfort from having to use its muscles to move the limb without the aid of tendons and ligaments.

“The Veterinarian said the damage to the limb was irreversible and recommended euthanasia to prevent further pain and suffering.”

The Inspector issued the defendant with a Section AWS130 notice A5367, instructing the defendant to have the bull euthanized within 24 hours, which Coleman did.

Peter Coleman, 51, pleaded guilty today in the Manukau District Court to two charges: 1) of failing to ensure the bull received treatment to alleviate any unreasonable or unnecessary pain or distress, and 2) keeping the bull alive when it was in such a condition that it was suffering unreasonable or unnecessary pain or distress.

He was fined $1500.

ends

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