Government and an animal rights group have seized seven horses from a stable owner because of concerns about their safety and living conditions.

Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals shelter committee chairman Andrew Madeiros last night said the problem at the Tunnel Stables on Canal Road in Pembroke was a "husbandry'' issue.

And he said the move came after months of discussions with the owner, believed to be a carriage operator.

"Yes, seven horses were taken from a stables in Pembroke on Wednesday,'' Dr.

Madeiros confirmed to The Royal Gazette . "There have been ongoing discussions with the owner, the SPCA, and the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries.

"It has not been resolved to our satisfaction and after a joint decision between Government and us, they were seized,'' he added. "Hopefully the owner knows we mean business. They will remain in our care until we are satisfied there is a facility where they can be appropriately cared for.'' Dr. Madeiros said the horses were seized due to safety concerns, particularly with heavy flooding during rainy days and the proximity to Canal Road.

"The stable conditions are inadequate, and then the parking and turn around areas are woefully inadequate,'' he explained. "There were also too many. I want to make it clear those horses were not malnourished in any way. At the SPCA we are concerned with all aspects of the care of animals.''