Animal Welfare Services has launched an "active investigation" into allegations of severe neglect involving several horses at a rural property in Oro-Medonte.
The investigation follows public outcry over the condition of horses owned by Stephanie Redlick at 248 Line 6 N.
Brent Ross, a spokesperson for the Ministry of the Solicitor General, confirmed that animal welfare inspectors attended the property on Wednesday and issued "several orders" concerning the welfare of the animals.
"Animal Welfare Services will continue to inspect the property to ensure compliance with the orders and the standards of care," Ross stated.
However, due to the ongoing investigation, he declined to provide further details.
Animal Welfare Services is within the Ministry of the Solicitor General and is responsible for enforcing the Provincial Animal Welfare Services Act.
Last week, concerned residents reported the horses were living in squalid conditions, suffering from malnutrition and infections, with one foal allegedly found dead in a stall.
They claim the animals have been left without adequate food and water for over a year.
Redlick, however, has strongly denied these accusations, stating she has been rescuing horses for years and has spent significant funds saving them from slaughter.
Redlick argues that some animals may appear underweight due to their recent rescue and ongoing rehabilitation. Redlick also alleges that some individuals reporting her have trespassed on her property and even harmed one of her horses.
While Redlick stated to Village Media last week that police are in the midst of an investigation, Orillia OPP has confirmed they are not investigating but said officers attended a protest at the property last Friday.
"We were just out there to keep the peace," says Gilles Doiron, the Orillia OPP community mobilization unit's acting sergeant. "It's still being investigated by Animal Welfare Services."