Badly malnourished horses seized from a Bulla property at the centre of a massive animal cruelty investigation are receiving 24-hour care at undisclosed locations.
But one of the 23 horses removed on Monday has had to be euthanased.
The horses were rescued with the help of Racing Victoria on Monday, a day after 22 horses were found dead on the property in Batey Court.
Another horse had to be put down after authorities were called in about 3.30pm on Sunday.
The horses were found when neighbours searched for the source of a foul smell drifting from the land, which is at the rear of the Bulla tip.
Former Olympian Bruce Akers, 63, was bailed on Monday after being charged with 92 animal cruelty offences.
SURVIVING HORSES ARE GATHERED AT THE SCENE EARLIER THIS WEEK. PICTURE: EDDIE JIM
On Wednesday afternoon, RSPCA acting chief executive Jon McGregor said surviving horses had been put on a strict feeding plan under the supervision of the animal welfare charity, veterinarians and Horse Shepherd Equine Sanctuary.
He said three horses exhibiting signs of colic were given intravenous fluids and being monitored carefully, with one transferred to an equine hospital where it was in a serious but stable condition.
An elderly horse described as ‘‘severely emaciated’’ was put down.
Racing Victoria has stepped in to fund veterinary care and feeding expenses.
Mr Akers could face up to two years in jail, a fine of up to $74,620 and be banned from owning any animal for at least 10 years, if he is found guilty of causing death by neglect.
He is expected to return to court in May.
