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'Skinniest horse I've ever seen' removed from property: Alberta SPCA

A severelymalnourishedhorse named Marvin is expected to survive after being removed from his property earlier this summer.

According to the Alberta SPCA, Marvin was about half the size of horses of his age when he entered management of the organization on July 12th.

Read more: The Alberta SPCA welcomed over 600 animals this winter. Ten horses found dead

1-year-old horses were removed from property in such poor condition that they could barely walk. The SPCA said his situation was "fully preventable."

The SPCA said the horses were allowed to breed when their owners were struggling to care for their animals.

"Marvin is the leanest horse I have ever seen," Alberta SPCA peace officer Ryan Butterwick said in a news release on Tuesday.

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Marvin the horse (L) was removed from an Alberta property and brought into the care of the Alberta SPCA on July 12, 2022.
Marvin Ma (L) was removed from Alberta property on July 12, 2022 and placed in the custody of the Alberta SPCA. Courtesy: SPCA, Alberta

Marvin's condition improved thereafter, but not enough for the horse to go home. It will be many months before I get well.

READ MORE: Alberta animal shelter in 'panic mode' over capacity issues

According to the SPCA, peace officers recently experienced a "busy summer" responding to similar calls about animals suffering because their owners failed to take action before the situation became dire. Examples of levels of animal neglect seen.

While the number of complaints made to the Alberta SPCA's animal distress line remains constant, the organization has reported levels of animal neglect and phone calls. It states that the number of animals involved is increasing.

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Often driven by difficult economic times, the SPCA does not use animals as an excuse to torment. says it can't.

The SPCA warns animal owners to ensure adequate homes for the animals in their care. A livestock owner should always have his six months' worth of feed on hand for the winter.

Marvin the horse was removed from his Alberta property and placed under the control of the Alberta SPCA on July 12, 2022 . Courtesy, Alberta SPCA

Owners who are unable to properly care for their animals during winter and spring will reduce their numbers should, he stressed the SPCA.

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"Once you have animals, it is your responsibility to make sure they are healthy and pain-free." He said SPCA in it. news release.

The SPCA said the organization would pay for Marvin's rehabilitation. The organization relies heavily on donations for its survival.

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