The story of a two-year-old driven to the point of exhaustion and in need of vet care has been released by the RSPCA to highlight the rise in cruelty cases in summer. Horses are sensitive animals and it’s always incredibly tough for us to investigate acts of deliberate cruelty. Ms Styles said the driver of this summer peak in cruelty reports, especially to horses, is unknown. “It could be inexperienced owners, or those using outdated methods or becoming frustrated with young or large horses,” she said. To stay up to date with the latest equestrian news, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website