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10 April 2012

The RSPCA is looking into the death of a second horse at Oakbank.

“Art Success” was one of two horses pulled up during the Great Eastern Steeplechase on Monday.

The RSPCA discovered today that he had a fractured pelvis and was later euthanased.

Chief Inspector Simon Richards has authorised an investigation into the circumstances that led to the horse’s injury and subsequent euthanasia, to ensure compliance with the Animal

Welfare Act.

Mr Richards may provide further comment if and when appropriate.

RSPCA (SA) Media and Campaigns Manager Jennifer Salter said the jumps racing toll is

unacceptably high.

“The deaths of two horses in two days of jumps racing is a terrible and tragic statistic,” she said.

“What this latest death demonstrates is that horses don’t have to fall to be seriously injured or killed.

“The Great Eastern Steeplechase in particular is grueling, requiring horses to negotiate 24 jumps at speed, over almost five kilometres of track.

“A third horse fell during the race but walked away.

“On Saturday, Virvacity died after coming to grief during the Von Doussa Steeplechase.

"South Australia and Victoria are the only States that continue to allow this sport.”

Last year 11 horses died, including five in SA.

The national toll for this year already stands at three, with a horse euthanased after falling at Sandown last month.

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