If someone has used your land for ‘fly grazing’ and the horse manages to break free, causing damage or even an accident, this could be deemed your responsibility. That’s why, even though the presence of animals can feel less intrusive than human trespassers, it’s vitally important to arrange for their removal as quickly and as safely as possible.

Having horses or other animals on your land without your permission can occur due to various reasons: they may have escaped from adjoining fields or pastures, they may have been put there deliberately for illegal fly grazing purposes, or they may even be accompanied by a group of gypsy travellers.

Whether it’s one horse or a larger group of animals, it’s vital that all relevant safety factors are adhered to when undertaking their removal. Of course, if you know where the animals originate from, it’s possible that you can approach the owner and ask for them to take care of the removal themselves – but if this isn’t viable, our bailiffs have the experience to take care of it for you.

Having specialist support is essential because animals, and horses in particular, can be dangerous – especially when they’re stressed or feel threatened. Our specialized team, know the best way to handle animals to avoid any harm or further distress.

We always inform all necessary parties when performing an animal removal, advising the local council, DEFRA and the police, and we work in line with all applicable laws at all times.

We have our own towing facilities and animal trailers, and can arrange for further welfare or disposal issues to be taken care of too if necessary.

Abandonment

Abandonment of equines is illegal under (Section 9 of the Animal Welfare Act 2006). Section 7(2) of the Animals Act 1971 says that where any livestock (which includes horses) strays onto any land and is not then under the control of any person, the occupier of the land may detain it (subject to further provisions). It is advisable that any occupier who finds abandoned livestock on their land seeks independent legal advice at the outset in relation to their responsibilities and liabilities in respect of the animal

A person commits an offence if they fail to provide for the needs of an animal; however, prosecution is often impossible as the process of abandonment means that it is unlikely that the owner will be traced.

If a horse is abandoned on your land under the Animal Welfare Act 2006 you will be responsible for that animals should its welfare be compromised. First, you must determine whether the horse has actually been abandoned. It could be a stray or has escaped from its field. The owner must be given a chance to come forward to claim their animal before you make alternative arrangements for the horse’s future.

Contact us for advice or help

We’re always happy to offer our advice, or discuss our animal removal services and the different procedures that our horse bailiffs can undertake on your behalf – just call us on 01636 642868 for a no-obligation chat, or drop us an email with brief details of your problem and we’ll get back to you as soon as we can.