0:00:04 > 0:00:08Britain's animals are under threat. All too often, our wildlife and
0:00:08 > 0:00:13domestic pets are the victims of cruelty, persecution and neglect.
0:00:13 > 0:00:20Fighting to save them is a dedicated band of people trying to protect and care for them around the clock.
0:00:20 > 0:00:24This is Animal 24-7.
0:00:44 > 0:00:46Today on Animal 24-7...
0:00:46 > 0:00:51- Down here, they have wasted your time, they are causing problems for me...- Not in my backyard.
0:00:51 > 0:00:54Outrage at allegations of cruelty.
0:00:54 > 0:00:59I've had environmental health, dog fouling, in my own back garden, which wasn't a problem.
0:00:59 > 0:01:03- They are welcome to check it. - Calm down, calm down, calm down.
0:01:03 > 0:01:06Rescue for the ponies forced to live in a junkyard.
0:01:06 > 0:01:14So much debris lying around with exposed nails, bits lying on the floor to trap their feet in.
0:01:14 > 0:01:17It's just unacceptable conditions.
0:01:17 > 0:01:21And it's release day for these feisty little owls.
0:01:21 > 0:01:24They may only be little, by name and nature,
0:01:24 > 0:01:27but they're really strong and they look like they mean business.
0:01:31 > 0:01:37RSPCA inspectors go through an exhaustive two-year training period before they qualify.
0:01:37 > 0:01:41They're taught to handle all manner of dangerous and wild animals.
0:01:41 > 0:01:47But skills that are learned on the job are tact, diplomacy and patience.
0:01:55 > 0:02:00Trevor Walker has been an RSPCA inspector for over 25 years...
0:02:03 > 0:02:06patrolling the North East of England.
0:02:06 > 0:02:11Over time he has gained an impressive array of knowledge and skills,
0:02:11 > 0:02:15helping him to deal with animals and their owners.
0:02:17 > 0:02:20Today Trevor is responding to a complaint that
0:02:20 > 0:02:24several underweight dogs are being kept in cramped cages.
0:02:25 > 0:02:26Hiya, you all right?
0:02:26 > 0:02:29- RSPCA. I've had a call about two dogs.- What's wrong with the dogs?
0:02:29 > 0:02:33- Don't know. They just said that they are thin.- Thin?
0:02:33 > 0:02:36The owner is not pleased to see Trevor.
0:02:36 > 0:02:38This isn't going to be just another routine call.
0:02:41 > 0:02:48Trevor is led through the owner's house to a large, clean cage and some very happy dogs.
0:02:48 > 0:02:51- Hello, you! - Come and have a look at this.
0:02:51 > 0:02:55The owner is keen to show Trevor a huge barrel of dog food.
0:02:55 > 0:02:57These pets clearly aren't underfed.
0:02:59 > 0:03:01- Are you happy?- I'm happy, yeah...
0:03:01 > 0:03:03I've got no issue with your dogs at all.
0:03:03 > 0:03:07The irate owner explains that this visit is the latest
0:03:07 > 0:03:12in a long line of unfair complaints which have brought the police and council to his door.
0:03:14 > 0:03:17I've had environmental health, dog fouling, in me own back garden
0:03:17 > 0:03:19which wasn't a problem, they're welcome to check it.
0:03:19 > 0:03:21Calm down, calm down, calm down.
0:03:21 > 0:03:23I've got no issue with your dogs.
0:03:23 > 0:03:26I like the conditions that you're keeping them in.
0:03:26 > 0:03:30So if anybody rings me again in future, I will turn round and say there is no problem.
0:03:30 > 0:03:34- Was it anonymous? - I have got a name, but I will respond back to the person
0:03:34 > 0:03:38and say that the allegations that you've made are totally unfounded.
0:03:38 > 0:03:40- But you won't tell me who it is? - No, I can't.- Exactly.- I can't.
0:03:40 > 0:03:43But there's not a problem, and I cannae do nowt about it.
0:03:44 > 0:03:49The RSPCA has to investigate all complaints, malicious or not.
0:03:49 > 0:03:52They have wasted your time, they are causing problems for me.
0:03:52 > 0:03:55I tell you what, I'll tell you on camera.
0:03:55 > 0:03:59I will show you in the cupboard in there, I'm on tablets for everything, because I'm a hothead.
0:03:59 > 0:04:01I've got tablets for to calm me down.
0:04:01 > 0:04:03I haven't got an issue with you at all.
0:04:03 > 0:04:07There's something wrong when someone makes a complaint but I can't know who it is.
0:04:07 > 0:04:08Well, I tell you what we can do...
0:04:08 > 0:04:12All callers identities are kept anonymous to prevent repercussions.
0:04:12 > 0:04:19Trevor reassures the owner that if any further false allegations are made, action will be taken.
0:04:19 > 0:04:22I'm more than happy with the way that you have dealt with them.
0:04:22 > 0:04:26Trevor's calm assurances have defused an awkward situation
0:04:26 > 0:04:30and given this dog lover some much needed peace of mind.
0:04:30 > 0:04:34So, if I come back again, are you going to shout at me again?
0:04:34 > 0:04:36No, no.
0:04:36 > 0:04:38All right, Mr Gowan, thanks ever so much for your time.
0:04:38 > 0:04:41There's no doubt about it.
0:04:41 > 0:04:45This chap obviously looks after his animals really well.
0:04:45 > 0:04:49And it appears as if he's been the subject of an allegation that
0:04:49 > 0:04:52doesn't appear to have any foundation to it, really.
0:05:00 > 0:05:07It's mid-afternoon. Trevor is following up a complaint previously investigated by a colleague.
0:05:07 > 0:05:1516 Shih Tzu dogs are being kept in a small terraced house, far too small for so many animals.
0:05:15 > 0:05:18The owner has been asked to dramatically reduce his numbers.
0:05:18 > 0:05:21There's no suggestion of any barking.
0:05:21 > 0:05:22Early signs are good.
0:05:24 > 0:05:29The other purpose of the call was that the dogs haven't been walked for four months.
0:05:29 > 0:05:32I suppose, if you've got 16 dogs, it's not surprising really, is it?
0:05:32 > 0:05:35It would be like painting the Forth Bridge.
0:05:38 > 0:05:44- Hello, are you all right? - Once inside, Trevor is greeted by a single, lively Shih Tzu.
0:05:44 > 0:05:46Hello, hello, hello, hello.
0:05:46 > 0:05:48All right, all right.
0:05:48 > 0:05:51Now he needs to find out if there are any more.
0:05:51 > 0:05:54How many have you got now then, do you know?
0:05:55 > 0:05:58I've got six.
0:05:58 > 0:06:02The owner explains he's sold some of his dogs and now has just six.
0:06:02 > 0:06:07How do you get on with your neighbours? Do they cause you any problems with the dogs barking?
0:06:07 > 0:06:09No. They are not that bad, you know?
0:06:09 > 0:06:14They do not bark that much. Just when people come, like, you know?
0:06:14 > 0:06:18So, it is only, like, when I'm here that they are actually barking, is it?
0:06:18 > 0:06:20- Yes.- Can I have a look, then?- Aye.
0:06:25 > 0:06:28Hello, you. Hello, you.
0:06:28 > 0:06:30I'm glad they are not Alsatians.
0:06:30 > 0:06:33THEY BARK WILDLY
0:06:33 > 0:06:37- How many have we got here, one... - The kitchen is chaotic.
0:06:37 > 0:06:43Trevor attempts a head count to confirm what the owner has told him but there's one dog missing.
0:06:45 > 0:06:48Can I hear some barking upstairs?
0:06:48 > 0:06:50Has one sneaked upstairs?
0:06:50 > 0:06:53It's all right.
0:06:53 > 0:06:56Well, we just need to have a look upstairs as well, then.
0:06:56 > 0:07:00But before Trevor can go upstairs, the owner has a confession to make.
0:07:00 > 0:07:04She's had puppies upstairs, like.
0:07:04 > 0:07:07So there's more than these down here, then, isn't there?
0:07:07 > 0:07:10There's one adult. How many puppies are there?
0:07:10 > 0:07:13Numbers are climbing back up.
0:07:13 > 0:07:16Can we have a look at those as well, then?
0:07:18 > 0:07:22There's not one dog upstairs, but a mother and her five puppies.
0:07:26 > 0:07:30The spare bedroom has been converted into a makeshift nursery.
0:07:32 > 0:07:35They are big puppies, them, aren't they?
0:07:35 > 0:07:39Trevor is relieved to hear the owner doesn't intend to keep the pups.
0:07:39 > 0:07:42Once old enough, he is going to sell them.
0:07:42 > 0:07:46- You need to make sure that they are going to the right homes.- I do.
0:07:46 > 0:07:51I would rather them go off to people that I know, who I can check up on,
0:07:51 > 0:07:56rather than just a stranger out of the paper and you never know what's going to happen to them.
0:07:56 > 0:07:58Leave her with the puppies.
0:08:04 > 0:08:11Trevor's worried the dogs could continue breeding. And they are behind with their vaccinations.
0:08:11 > 0:08:18If one of them picks up any kind of a virus, it will go rife through the lot of them, you know?
0:08:18 > 0:08:23That is the purpose of having them vaccinated. It's there to protect them.
0:08:23 > 0:08:28These dogs are living in completely unsuitable conditions. The kitchen floor has become damaged,
0:08:28 > 0:08:32so it's dangerous and unhygienic, especially for such young pups.
0:08:32 > 0:08:36You could do with to change this flooring.
0:08:36 > 0:08:40It's clear the owner loves his animals but, with so many dogs, he's struggling to manage.
0:08:40 > 0:08:42Trevor leaves him with an action plan.
0:08:42 > 0:08:45We do need to sort out the environment.
0:08:45 > 0:08:47We do need to sort out the bitches.
0:08:47 > 0:08:50And then I'll come back and see you in a fortnight's time.
0:08:50 > 0:08:52Thanks, mate. See you later.
0:08:52 > 0:08:54This is going to be a tough job.
0:08:54 > 0:09:00The owner has previously promised to reduce the number of dogs he keeps but if he continues to
0:09:00 > 0:09:03ignore the advice, Trevor's patience may start to wear thin.
0:09:11 > 0:09:13Later...
0:09:13 > 0:09:15I've spoken to the vet recently.
0:09:15 > 0:09:20And he hasn't been up to sort out the vaccination programme. So it may be
0:09:20 > 0:09:27- quite interesting to see what he's got to say today.- And I help these lapwings get back to nature.
0:09:27 > 0:09:28Great to see them close-up,
0:09:28 > 0:09:32but it would be even better to get them out in the fields.
0:09:36 > 0:09:40Now, we're off to Preston and the story of 20 neglected ponies.
0:09:40 > 0:09:44The animals are living in muddy fields and there are hazards in every corner.
0:09:44 > 0:09:50They are about to be rescued but conditions are so dangerous, it's not going to be an easy job.
0:09:59 > 0:10:03To anyone passing by, it looks like a typical scrap yard.
0:10:05 > 0:10:08A mess of twisted metal and ramshackle huts.
0:10:10 > 0:10:15But it's actually home to more than a dozen horses.
0:10:17 > 0:10:21Now, after failing to persuade the owner to improve things,
0:10:21 > 0:10:25a number of animal welfare groups have decided to take action.
0:10:28 > 0:10:32Just try to get these vehicles moved then we can try to get the trailer in.
0:10:32 > 0:10:35Chris Williamson is from World Horse Welfare.
0:10:38 > 0:10:41Most of them are living in very squalid conditions.
0:10:41 > 0:10:43Stallions with stallions, fighting.
0:10:43 > 0:10:48Mares with foals at foot in containers.
0:10:48 > 0:10:55Some of the field conditions, they are above your knees in mud,
0:10:55 > 0:10:58so it's not ideal at all.
0:10:58 > 0:11:01The owner's not being very co-operative with us.
0:11:01 > 0:11:06He's been given the opportunity to correct the situation and, to date, he hasn't done so.
0:11:08 > 0:11:14As well as the horses forced to live among this junk, there are another seven in a field nearby.
0:11:14 > 0:11:20We've got the two in there and the foal in there to bring out.
0:11:20 > 0:11:24Today, Chris is joined by the RSPCA and the police.
0:11:24 > 0:11:29They're going to take the horses away from here, whether the owner likes it or not.
0:11:29 > 0:11:35We have been trying to help him. We have in the past helped trim his horses' feet.
0:11:35 > 0:11:40We have given advice and this advice has been continuously ignored
0:11:40 > 0:11:43which has culminated in this operation today.
0:11:43 > 0:11:45This is a huge task.
0:11:45 > 0:11:49A fleet of horseboxes are on standby.
0:11:50 > 0:11:54But the field is at the end of a narrow, single-track road.
0:11:54 > 0:11:58The horses can only be moved a few at a time and many are wild.
0:11:59 > 0:12:03This is intolerable conditions, isn't it? And it is just getting worse.
0:12:03 > 0:12:11Before beginning the move, Chris needs to take a look at the hazards he needs to avoid.
0:12:11 > 0:12:15We've got so much debris lying around - exposed nails,
0:12:15 > 0:12:22metal bits lying on the floor to trap their feet in.
0:12:22 > 0:12:25It's just unacceptable conditions.
0:12:26 > 0:12:32All the ponies are in a dreadful state. Many are caked in mud and manure...
0:12:33 > 0:12:37..and this one appears to be lame. It's vital it gets medical help.
0:12:42 > 0:12:48Inside this old wagon trailer, conditions are even worse.
0:12:51 > 0:12:55We have got a mare and foal here. Obviously been in this container
0:12:55 > 0:12:59for quite some time, looking at the conditions that are in here.
0:12:59 > 0:13:02You are not talking about weeks.
0:13:02 > 0:13:09You're talking about months and more of debris, faeces, dumped in here.
0:13:09 > 0:13:16You've got at the back here an old door, which is a recipe for injury,
0:13:16 > 0:13:19and the conditions are just atrocious.
0:13:22 > 0:13:25The team needs to get this pair out of their box.
0:13:27 > 0:13:32But having been in there for so long, there's no way of knowing how they're going to react.
0:13:39 > 0:13:43Both ponies appear bewildered by so much freedom.
0:13:48 > 0:13:53They rush around wildly, narrowly missing the dangerous debris.
0:13:55 > 0:13:59Eventually they're ushered into the waiting trailers.
0:14:05 > 0:14:09Now, the officers will turn their attention to the two stallions.
0:14:12 > 0:14:15They have been left to fight and breed at will.
0:14:23 > 0:14:26In you go, you beauty.
0:14:26 > 0:14:30The two stallions are successfully loaded into their transport.
0:14:32 > 0:14:34The final job is to round up the rest of the mares.
0:14:41 > 0:14:44The team now has to catch the other seven horses
0:14:44 > 0:14:47left in a similar condition in the nearby field.
0:14:50 > 0:14:53One is a heavily pregnant mare called Flo.
0:14:53 > 0:14:56She could give birth at any time.
0:14:56 > 0:15:01It is important not to get it too stressed up.
0:15:02 > 0:15:06The sooner we can handle it and get it in,
0:15:06 > 0:15:13the better for the mare as well. We need to try and catch and put a head collar on it if we can.
0:15:19 > 0:15:23Fortunately the team manages to coax her into the box
0:15:23 > 0:15:29and after another hour, the rescue of all 20 horses is complete.
0:15:29 > 0:15:33I am quite pleased with it. I anticipated major problems today,
0:15:33 > 0:15:38with them all not being handled, but this has gone better than I anticipated.
0:15:38 > 0:15:41This is the worst field because it is so open.
0:15:42 > 0:15:47Next stop is World Horse Welfare's recovery farm in Blackpool.
0:15:51 > 0:15:54They will now begin their journey back to full health.
0:15:57 > 0:16:01Although these horses have been rescued from immediate danger,
0:16:01 > 0:16:06the long-term effects of living in such conditions have yet to be explored.
0:16:06 > 0:16:08That's a good boy.
0:16:09 > 0:16:13And with full vet checks yet to come on Flo and the lame pony,
0:16:13 > 0:16:19it's too early to say how many of them will be fit enough to survive.
0:16:25 > 0:16:29Coming up - uncovering the cause of Herbie's pain.
0:16:29 > 0:16:30That's what he has in there.
0:16:30 > 0:16:34A big piece of nail sticking in his foot.
0:16:35 > 0:16:38And a final warning at the House of Shih Tzus.
0:16:38 > 0:16:44It's not the case that I am meaning to harass you or anything like that but I need to make sure that,
0:16:44 > 0:16:47what I ask you to do, you do it.
0:16:54 > 0:16:58In spring, Ali Townshend's back garden is not just full of flowers -
0:16:58 > 0:17:00it's full of orphaned animals, too.
0:17:03 > 0:17:08Among the arrivals this year is a pair of plovers, or lapwings,
0:17:08 > 0:17:11a partridge and a brood of little owls.
0:17:11 > 0:17:16Ali has been playing mum to all of them. It's no longer springtime.
0:17:16 > 0:17:22The leaves on the ground and one or two windfalls give you the clue that it's actually early autumn.
0:17:22 > 0:17:26Some of these animals have grown up and Ali is now ready to release them.
0:17:31 > 0:17:34- Here we are.- Right. - What have we got here?
0:17:34 > 0:17:39- A few different things. - We have. We've got two lapwings.
0:17:39 > 0:17:43- A red legged partridge and a moorhen. - How do you know these guys are ready?
0:17:43 > 0:17:49Well, they are eating well, they are bathing and trying to flap their wings and
0:17:49 > 0:17:54- what have you, now, so we're happy. - How do we go about catching them?
0:17:54 > 0:17:55Right. You can go in. If you like.
0:17:55 > 0:18:00- How do I go about catching them is what I should have said, is it?- Yes.
0:18:04 > 0:18:09It is unusual enough even to see plovers across a field but, to actually, quite literally,
0:18:09 > 0:18:11get my hands on them is very strange.
0:18:14 > 0:18:17I start with the first of the plovers.
0:18:19 > 0:18:21There he is, screeching away.
0:18:21 > 0:18:25If you can put it in, I am literally going to shut the box in your hand.
0:18:25 > 0:18:30The second one can run but there's nowhere to hide.
0:18:35 > 0:18:38And the last one is the red legged partridge.
0:18:38 > 0:18:41- The red legged partridge, is he going to be a bit more tricky?- Yeah.
0:18:42 > 0:18:46Ow! He's got sharp claws.
0:18:47 > 0:18:52Great to see close-up, but it will be even better to get them out in the fields.
0:18:58 > 0:19:03We travel to a nearby field specially chosen for their release.
0:19:05 > 0:19:07- Ready?- They have survived the journey.
0:19:07 > 0:19:09They have. There you go. You can have that one.
0:19:09 > 0:19:13I can feel them skittling around in the box. Both quite on the lively side.
0:19:13 > 0:19:19There's plenty of safe ground-cover here and woods nearby.
0:19:19 > 0:19:21First to go is the partridge.
0:19:22 > 0:19:27Now is the moment our red legged partridge stretches his legs,
0:19:27 > 0:19:29and maybe his wings, for freedom.
0:19:31 > 0:19:34There we go. Nice and calm.
0:19:34 > 0:19:37He looks a tiny bit bemused about the big, wide world.
0:19:39 > 0:19:45With the partridge keeping his head down, things haven't exactly got off to a flying start.
0:19:45 > 0:19:49- Now it's time to release the other two. Shall we go?- Ready?
0:19:49 > 0:19:54One heads straight for the trees, but the second is happy to reach for the clouds.
0:19:54 > 0:20:00- No danger about him flying off. He just, phoof!
0:20:00 > 0:20:03That shows you that natural instinct - he has been in a small cage,
0:20:03 > 0:20:07- but he can still fly like that at the first attempt.- That was amazing.
0:20:07 > 0:20:09SHE LAUGHS
0:20:11 > 0:20:15I seem to have got the hang of this, so it's straight back to Weirfield
0:20:15 > 0:20:18and time for the little owls to leave.
0:20:19 > 0:20:21They're in here.
0:20:21 > 0:20:24They are very characterful animals, aren't they?
0:20:24 > 0:20:27Great personality. Big eyes, and dodging about.
0:20:27 > 0:20:32They were small in springtime and they are still little now, but that's just their way.
0:20:32 > 0:20:35People always bring these in and say, "We have got a baby owl."
0:20:35 > 0:20:39"No, it's a little owl." And they say, "Yes, we have got a baby owl",
0:20:39 > 0:20:43and we say, "No, this is how big they are, this is their fully-grown size."
0:20:43 > 0:20:47I have a feeling these little characters are going to make me look like a fool.
0:20:47 > 0:20:52Which isn't that difficult anyway, but I think it should be particularly easy with these guys.
0:20:53 > 0:20:57Ali sets off with a sense of purpose.
0:20:58 > 0:21:00But I beat her to it. I have got one here.
0:21:00 > 0:21:03Thankfully, they have kept their wild ways.
0:21:03 > 0:21:08- I'm glad I've got the gloves on because he's having a go at my finger. You got one as well?- I did.
0:21:08 > 0:21:11Just straight in the box? Between us, that's half the job done.
0:21:13 > 0:21:15And it's 2-1, to me.
0:21:15 > 0:21:17Good catch.
0:21:20 > 0:21:23They may only be little, by name and nature,
0:21:23 > 0:21:27but they are really strong and they look like they mean business.
0:21:27 > 0:21:32With all four now in the box, it's time to set this lot on their way.
0:21:33 > 0:21:36We are hoping to take the owls back to a place where at least
0:21:36 > 0:21:41one of them was found, in the hope they'll establish a new colony here.
0:21:43 > 0:21:45Is this the kind of spot?
0:21:45 > 0:21:48Yep. This looks OK. We have a nice big tree in front of us.
0:21:48 > 0:21:50Is there a technique to release?
0:21:50 > 0:21:53No, it's an open the box and sit back.
0:22:01 > 0:22:03The first makes a early bid for freedom.
0:22:07 > 0:22:10And one by one, the others happily take to the wing.
0:22:12 > 0:22:14It is quite a big shock, remember.
0:22:18 > 0:22:20Brilliant. And a few of them are just sat over there.
0:22:20 > 0:22:23Very considerate - allowing us to film them!
0:22:23 > 0:22:26I think that's just a case of them getting their bearings.
0:22:26 > 0:22:28The birds I've seen today are the lucky ones.
0:22:28 > 0:22:33Only about half of the springtime casualties brought into Weirfield make it through to release.
0:22:33 > 0:22:39Certainly, you nursed them back to health and they are fine leaving you, as they say.
0:22:39 > 0:22:44Yes, we do our best and it is up to them to survive, once they get back into the wild.
0:22:44 > 0:22:47Just tear my eyes away from the little owls over there.
0:22:47 > 0:22:50I don't want to miss them when they finally fly off.
0:22:50 > 0:22:55It's been a great day today, releasing these and the lapwings and the red legged partridge.
0:22:55 > 0:22:57And Alison makes a very good point.
0:22:57 > 0:23:03You don't know for certain if they are actually going to survive when they are out and about here
0:23:03 > 0:23:06but I'm confident she's given them the best chance.
0:23:11 > 0:23:18Later, a new foal for Flo - the mare rescued from a life of squalor.
0:23:18 > 0:23:20If the mare have foaled in those conditions,
0:23:20 > 0:23:25I would say that the likelihood of the foal surviving would have been very slim.
0:23:28 > 0:23:33Earlier we saw inspector Trevor Walker with a Shih Tzu owner
0:23:33 > 0:23:37who was close to being overrun with the small and noisy dogs.
0:23:37 > 0:23:42Trevor also discovered a litter of puppies upstairs and poor living conditions downstairs.
0:23:42 > 0:23:45He's hoping for some improvement.
0:23:45 > 0:23:49First, he's on his way to see an animal owner in unusual circumstances
0:23:49 > 0:23:52with an even more unusual pet.
0:23:59 > 0:24:07Sometimes a pet owner's life can change dramatically and this can leave their animals in trouble.
0:24:09 > 0:24:14Trevor's latest call is from a member of the public. They're worried that Steve Hyssen,
0:24:14 > 0:24:16a man with ongoing health problems,
0:24:16 > 0:24:22has been leaving his parrot, two dogs and a snake unattended while in hospital.
0:24:22 > 0:24:25Now then, what's happening?
0:24:25 > 0:24:27- How is it going?- Not so bad.
0:24:27 > 0:24:30I've just got back from hospital, actually.
0:24:30 > 0:24:32- Just this minute got back.- OK.
0:24:32 > 0:24:33- How are you?- I'm not bad.
0:24:33 > 0:24:36- I've had another call.- Have you?
0:24:36 > 0:24:41Yeah, about who's been looking after the dogs while you've been in hospital.
0:24:41 > 0:24:46I've had somebody come over and stay while I was in hospital.
0:24:46 > 0:24:49Steve explains that his animals have had a live-in carer.
0:24:49 > 0:24:54The two German shepherds, Lennox and Khan, appear to have been well looked after.
0:24:54 > 0:24:57- The dogs are looking all right. - Oh, they're fine.
0:24:57 > 0:25:02- Have you still got your other stuff? - Yes.- The, what was it, it was a...
0:25:02 > 0:25:05At Ashton Grange, round the corner, at my friend's house.
0:25:05 > 0:25:10They are keeping them until I've had everything done and I've come out of hospital, basically.
0:25:10 > 0:25:15- You've still got the snakes, then? - Yes.- Are they at somebody's house or are they here?
0:25:15 > 0:25:17The snake's here.
0:25:18 > 0:25:22Trevor won't be fully satisfied until he's inspected all of Steve's pets.
0:25:22 > 0:25:27This means checking over a female Burmese python called Rosie,
0:25:27 > 0:25:29all 12 feet of her.
0:25:30 > 0:25:35Despite being on crutches, Steve has little trouble handling the giant snake.
0:25:35 > 0:25:38You're lucky she's shed her skin.
0:25:38 > 0:25:43She's capable of growing a further 6 ft and could crush a grown adult to death.
0:25:43 > 0:25:45The dogs are blissfully unaware.
0:25:47 > 0:25:51There's no reaction from the snake towards the dogs and vice-versa.
0:25:51 > 0:25:55She's used to them. She is so placid anyway. There's her skin.
0:25:55 > 0:26:00Trevor's hoping Rosie will be just as placid with him.
0:26:00 > 0:26:07Although RSPCA inspectors are trained to handle snakes, Trevor has to be careful.
0:26:07 > 0:26:12Rosie is used to being touched, but if starved or threatened, pythons can attack.
0:26:13 > 0:26:16Interested in the dogs, that's for sure.
0:26:16 > 0:26:20Luckily for Trevor, this big girl is well-fed.
0:26:20 > 0:26:24- She doesn't eat rabbits yet - she's still on rats.- How many's she on?
0:26:24 > 0:26:26Three a week.
0:26:26 > 0:26:29Rosie is in excellent condition.
0:26:32 > 0:26:34Trevor's satisfied that all Steve's animals,
0:26:34 > 0:26:38despite his obvious difficulties, are being well cared for.
0:26:38 > 0:26:42Before he leaves, Trevor offers his help, should Steve need it in future.
0:26:42 > 0:26:45Just keep my number and let me know when you go back into hospital again,
0:26:45 > 0:26:49so that, if necessary, I can come round and make sure everything's OK.
0:26:49 > 0:26:53- Yeah. Oh - sorry!- Did you hear that? THEY LAUGH
0:26:53 > 0:26:56Although Trevor did not finish the job completely unscathed,
0:26:56 > 0:27:00he leaves knowing the animals are in good hands.
0:27:00 > 0:27:01See you later.
0:27:04 > 0:27:10It's late afternoon. Time to revisit the dog owner overrun with Shih Tzus.
0:27:10 > 0:27:15Trevor's hoping he's followed the advice given during his last visit.
0:27:15 > 0:27:17He's got a very small property.
0:27:17 > 0:27:19He's got a lot of dogs.
0:27:19 > 0:27:23If he does continue to breed from the bitches then
0:27:23 > 0:27:30it could quickly escalate from the six adults that he has at the moment, to lots and lots of additional dogs.
0:27:30 > 0:27:35And if we do consider that the animals are at risk, they will be removed.
0:27:37 > 0:27:44Trevor requested three things - fewer dogs, vet treatment and a new kitchen floor.
0:27:44 > 0:27:47So, how's everything going?
0:27:47 > 0:27:50At first glance, things don't seem to have changed.
0:27:50 > 0:27:54There are still 11 dogs and it's chaos.
0:27:55 > 0:27:59But in the kitchen, there are some signs of improvement.
0:27:59 > 0:28:02That looks a lot better.
0:28:02 > 0:28:04Is it just the Lino base?
0:28:05 > 0:28:09Even that's a lot better than what you had.
0:28:09 > 0:28:11No doubt about it.
0:28:11 > 0:28:14The new floor gives the dogs a cleaner, safer environment.
0:28:17 > 0:28:22- How old are the pups now then? - Coming up for five-and-a-half weeks.
0:28:22 > 0:28:26Are you just going to keep them for two and a half weeks, to sell, yes?
0:28:28 > 0:28:33Shall we leave all the dogs in here and then we can just have a chat?
0:28:33 > 0:28:36Though what's underfoot may have changed,
0:28:36 > 0:28:41the owner has done nothing to reduce the number of dogs he has crammed into this house.
0:28:43 > 0:28:48It's hard to be heard, but Trevor's determined to find out why his advice has been ignored.
0:28:48 > 0:28:51- So, since the last visit, you've done the floor.- Aye.
0:28:51 > 0:28:54Have you thought about the neutering programme at all?
0:28:54 > 0:28:57I am going to get them...
0:28:57 > 0:29:00Are you? The three females?
0:29:02 > 0:29:05Once the females are spayed, the breeding will come to an end.
0:29:05 > 0:29:09This should keep the numbers under control in this overcrowded house.
0:29:09 > 0:29:12But cash flow is a problem.
0:29:12 > 0:29:15What we are depending on now
0:29:15 > 0:29:18is you selling off the remaining puppies,
0:29:18 > 0:29:23to do the vaccination programme and get the three bitches spayed.
0:29:23 > 0:29:25If you can take my word, I'll get them done.
0:29:25 > 0:29:29It's not the case that I'm meaning to harass you or anything like that
0:29:29 > 0:29:33but I need to make sure that what I ask you to do, you do it.
0:29:33 > 0:29:39Obviously, if you don't do it, then I have to start looking at things in a different light.
0:29:39 > 0:29:41Aye, aye.
0:29:41 > 0:29:47With space and money being tight, Trevor gives the owner one last gentle nudge to encourage him
0:29:47 > 0:29:49to reduce his numbers before problems arise.
0:29:49 > 0:29:54I want to make sure that you're not going to be struggling or leaving yourself short,
0:29:54 > 0:29:58then the dogs start going short, you start going short, that kind of thing...
0:29:58 > 0:30:00No, nothing like that.
0:30:00 > 0:30:06- Right, OK.- The owner has promised that this time he will listen and cut the number of dogs.
0:30:06 > 0:30:12But this is the second time Trevor has heard this. Is anything ever really going to change?
0:30:12 > 0:30:14Thanks a lot for your time.
0:30:14 > 0:30:16- Ta-ra now.- Ta-ra.
0:30:25 > 0:30:28- Still to come. - I've had a call about some dogs.
0:30:28 > 0:30:31Trevor's on the trail of the flower shop huskies.
0:30:31 > 0:30:34They are everybody's friends.
0:30:34 > 0:30:40- We've got water beside them. They are better looked after than a human.- Good!
0:30:40 > 0:30:41And you will see, as soon as you see them.
0:30:46 > 0:30:51In Preston local volunteers from the World Horse Welfare charity are facing a huge challenge.
0:30:51 > 0:30:56Together with the police and the RSPCA, they have rounded up 20 neglected ponies.
0:30:56 > 0:30:58Their home resembled a scrapyard.
0:30:58 > 0:31:01It was dirty and dangerous.
0:31:01 > 0:31:07Now the ponies have arrived back at the sanctuary in Blackpool, it's time for them to see a vet.
0:31:13 > 0:31:18For those involved in the dramatic rescue of these ponies it's been a long and difficult day.
0:31:23 > 0:31:29And as the last of the animals hobble into a rehabilitation farm, there's still plenty of work to do.
0:31:32 > 0:31:37The vet will give an examination of them, just a quick check over to see
0:31:37 > 0:31:41if they have travelled all right and if there's any issues.
0:31:41 > 0:31:46If there's no issues at the moment then we will give them the night
0:31:46 > 0:31:49to rest then we will have a full examination tomorrow.
0:31:52 > 0:31:57Most of the animals can wait until tomorrow, but two of them need immediate treatment.
0:31:58 > 0:32:00First is the pregnant mare, Flo.
0:32:00 > 0:32:03She could give birth at any time.
0:32:03 > 0:32:05Vet Peter Holland checks her over.
0:32:05 > 0:32:08Just looking for any skin parasites, such as lice.
0:32:08 > 0:32:12First impressions seem good but Peter decides to take a blood sample
0:32:12 > 0:32:16to make sure there's no hidden risk to her foal.
0:32:17 > 0:32:21It's not just Flo that needs help.
0:32:21 > 0:32:23This is Herbie.
0:32:23 > 0:32:25He's struggling to walk.
0:32:25 > 0:32:28Staff need to find out just what it is that is causing his lameness.
0:32:29 > 0:32:31He was hopping when we got there.
0:32:31 > 0:32:34He's certainly not improved since we got here.
0:32:34 > 0:32:37So, we're going to have a good look and find out exactly what's going on with this back leg.
0:32:37 > 0:32:42Probably going to have to sedate him, cos he's quite nervous. Just have a good look at him.
0:32:44 > 0:32:49As Peter begins his examinations, he quickly spots the cause of the problem -
0:32:49 > 0:32:54and it's a painful reminder of the conditions these ponies have had to endure.
0:32:54 > 0:32:59That's what he has in there - a big piece of nail sticking in his foot.
0:33:05 > 0:33:08The nail has been removed, but Peter doesn't know how long
0:33:08 > 0:33:12it's been there or whether it's caused any infection in the hoof.
0:33:14 > 0:33:16If that nail has penetrated the joint in the foot, there won't
0:33:16 > 0:33:18be anything we can do for this pony, to be honest.
0:33:18 > 0:33:23So, we're just going to have to hope that, now that's removed,
0:33:23 > 0:33:27with some antibiotics, that this pony's going to improve quite quickly.
0:33:29 > 0:33:36With medical checks now complete, all the ponies can look forward to a proper rest on clean beds.
0:33:37 > 0:33:42But, for Flo and Herbie, the next few weeks are going to be crucial.
0:33:49 > 0:33:56Three months later and the contrast in the ponies' living conditions couldn't be greater.
0:33:56 > 0:34:01Instead of being confined to filthy containers, they're now housed in clean stables.
0:34:03 > 0:34:07The muddy paddock has been swapped for green and pleasant pasture.
0:34:09 > 0:34:15And Flo, the pregnant mare who arrived in a dreadful state, has changed beyond all recognition.
0:34:15 > 0:34:19And she's given birth to a healthy foal called Coral.
0:34:19 > 0:34:24If the mare had foaled in those conditions, I would have said the likelihood of
0:34:24 > 0:34:31the foal surviving would have been very slim and even the health of the mare would have been at risk.
0:34:31 > 0:34:35Another big success story is Herbie, the three-year-old pony who had a nail in his hoof.
0:34:35 > 0:34:42Miraculously, he survived the life-threatening injuries and is now learning to walk without a limp.
0:34:42 > 0:34:48As you can see now, it's clearly standing square on all fours, it's weight-bearing.
0:34:48 > 0:34:52Very comfortable on the feet now.
0:34:52 > 0:34:55So that is 100 per cent success.
0:34:59 > 0:35:05They're quite happy in their outlook and, given time,
0:35:05 > 0:35:12I'm pretty sure we'll be able to rehabilitate them and they'll go on to lead a normal life.
0:35:14 > 0:35:19The transformation in all these ponies is remarkable.
0:35:19 > 0:35:25They can now look forward to bright futures, given the care and attention they deserve.
0:35:32 > 0:35:35Finally, we're back with Trevor Walker.
0:35:35 > 0:35:39He's about to find out if the owner of 11 noisy Shih Tzus has acted
0:35:39 > 0:35:43on his demands to cut the number of animals he keeps.
0:35:43 > 0:35:46But first, he must investigate claims that dogs
0:35:46 > 0:35:51more at home in the snow are being kept in soaring temperatures.
0:35:57 > 0:35:59The Siberian husky.
0:35:59 > 0:36:02A beautiful animal of immense strength and resilience.
0:36:02 > 0:36:07Able to survive in some of the harshest and most unforgiving environments on earth.
0:36:07 > 0:36:09Alaska.
0:36:09 > 0:36:12The Siberian Arctic.
0:36:12 > 0:36:13Northumberland.
0:36:16 > 0:36:22Trevor Walker is responding to a complaint suggesting the huskies are kept outside this town-centre
0:36:22 > 0:36:24florist for hours on end.
0:36:24 > 0:36:28I'm particularly concerned with the hot weather we have been having.
0:36:28 > 0:36:32We just need to check and see whether it's as per the allegation, where they are suggesting that
0:36:32 > 0:36:36the dogs are outside all day or whether it is the case that they are outside occasionally
0:36:36 > 0:36:41and they are provided shade the rest of the time, and obviously the water requirement that they will need.
0:36:41 > 0:36:44So we will just have a look and see what the situation is.
0:36:46 > 0:36:49Trevor arrives and discovers the huskies are out with their owner.
0:36:49 > 0:36:52He is greeted by the shop manager, Sharon Dawson.
0:36:54 > 0:36:59The initial call came in regarding heat exposure. Could have a look and see if there are any problems.
0:36:59 > 0:37:03You certainly can. They will be back in two minutes. OK.
0:37:03 > 0:37:07The huskies are well known in the town and have become minor local celebrities.
0:37:07 > 0:37:12Everybody knows them as the flower shop huskies because John
0:37:12 > 0:37:15sets the shop up in the morning and they sit outside.
0:37:15 > 0:37:19- They get better looked after than a human. - Good. That's what I'm here for.
0:37:19 > 0:37:23You will see, as soon as you see them. They are everybody's friend.
0:37:23 > 0:37:25They have got water beside them.
0:37:25 > 0:37:28They're not put outside and forgotten about, at all.
0:37:28 > 0:37:31And they are just absolutely wonderful.
0:37:31 > 0:37:34You will see them in a second.
0:37:34 > 0:37:37A complaint, John, again.
0:37:37 > 0:37:39Oh, aye. There's always somebody.
0:37:39 > 0:37:43- Here they are. - Can I have a look at them, firstly?
0:37:47 > 0:37:51Returning from his walk, owner John Robinson leads Trevor
0:37:51 > 0:37:57outside to meet three young huskies, Varna, Ardra, and Kaya.
0:37:57 > 0:38:01- So these are the pups, then, are they?- They are my babies.- Hello, you!
0:38:01 > 0:38:05All three are in perfect condition.
0:38:06 > 0:38:09So, mummies, I'll show you the mummies.
0:38:11 > 0:38:17Waiting to go out on John's next delivery are the two mothers, Kiska and Shadow.
0:38:17 > 0:38:19Hello, you two, hello.
0:38:19 > 0:38:25And, as with the pups, these older huskies are clearly well cared for.
0:38:25 > 0:38:27And if you can see anything the matter with them,
0:38:27 > 0:38:30ill treated or anything...
0:38:30 > 0:38:35The only issue I have got, and this is what confused me when I got
0:38:35 > 0:38:40the call, the call suggested to me that they were outside all the time,
0:38:40 > 0:38:45and that the puppies were in a cage and obviously they couldn't even move round.
0:38:45 > 0:38:49So you can understand why we'd have concerns in that kind of situation.
0:38:49 > 0:38:51That would have been the only concern.
0:38:51 > 0:38:55As long as you're realistic with it, put them outside and get them back into the back
0:38:55 > 0:39:01so they can get some cool, cool themselves down, water available all the time, I haven't got an issue.
0:39:01 > 0:39:04They may not be in their natural environment...
0:39:04 > 0:39:06So that's fine, thanks for your time.
0:39:06 > 0:39:08See you again. Bye-bye.
0:39:08 > 0:39:14..but Trevor is satisfied that the flower shop huskies are well loved and cared for.
0:39:14 > 0:39:17They're sure to be a fixture in this town for many years to come.
0:39:24 > 0:39:29As the day draws to a close, Trevor has one final job he wants to do.
0:39:31 > 0:39:34He's going to pay a third visit to the Shih Tzu owner.
0:39:34 > 0:39:37He's already had two chances to vaccinate,
0:39:37 > 0:39:41neuter and reduce the number of dogs in his small Newcastle terrace.
0:39:42 > 0:39:47So, it's really just a case of seeing what the situation is regarding this guy.
0:39:47 > 0:39:52Whether he has done what I asked him to do, whether he has any intention of doing what I asked him to do.
0:39:52 > 0:39:58Because in the past he has said he would comply but I have spoken to the vets recently and he hasn't been up
0:39:58 > 0:40:01to sort out the vaccination programme. Or the neutering.
0:40:01 > 0:40:05So it may be quite interesting to see what he has to say today.
0:40:07 > 0:40:10Hello, you! Hello, hello, hello.
0:40:10 > 0:40:15As always, Trevor is greeted by the sound of pattering claws.
0:40:15 > 0:40:17Only this time there are fewer of them.
0:40:17 > 0:40:21The puppies have been sold and something else is missing, too.
0:40:23 > 0:40:26The bitches, I'm getting them re-homed.
0:40:26 > 0:40:29Oh, right! What's this?
0:40:30 > 0:40:35That's, if you want to check, that's who took them.
0:40:35 > 0:40:37- All right, OK.- He took the three.
0:40:37 > 0:40:41So, what have you got now, then? You haven't got any bitches at all now?
0:40:41 > 0:40:44That's it. And you can check.
0:40:44 > 0:40:47I'm pleased to hear that, mate, I must be truthful.
0:40:47 > 0:40:51- You can check with that... - Yes, I'll give them a ring.
0:40:54 > 0:40:58Trevor's relieved that his persistence has finally paid off.
0:40:58 > 0:41:00He started dealing with 11 dogs.
0:41:00 > 0:41:03Now after three visits only four remain.
0:41:03 > 0:41:07But the job isn't quite over yet.
0:41:07 > 0:41:12I'm pleased to see you have thinned your numbers down and you have taken notice of that.
0:41:12 > 0:41:16What I may do is, if you can just stick by what we already said
0:41:16 > 0:41:20- and make sure that you get the vaccination sorted out. - That'll be next week, aye.
0:41:20 > 0:41:23Thanks a lot for your assistance in that one, Peter.
0:41:23 > 0:41:26- Catch you later. Bye-bye.- Ta-ra, now.
0:41:26 > 0:41:28It's a rewarding visit for Trevor.
0:41:28 > 0:41:32He leaves happy, knowing that without any females in the house,
0:41:32 > 0:41:35these four boys will have to look for a new hobby.
0:41:37 > 0:41:41Trevor's working life can be frustrating, complicated and varied.
0:41:41 > 0:41:45But, for an RSPCA inspector, dealing with broken promises,
0:41:45 > 0:41:49a giant Burmese python, two excitable German shepherds, five
0:41:49 > 0:41:57flower shop huskies, 11 noisy Shih Tzus and one very angry dog lover - it's all part of the service.
0:42:02 > 0:42:08If you think you know of a case of wildlife crime or a creature that needs immediate protection,
0:42:08 > 0:42:12remember there are people who will answer your call right around the clock.
0:42:12 > 0:42:16They are the people we meet on Animal 24/7.
0:42:18 > 0:42:21Next time on Animal 24-7:
0:42:21 > 0:42:23Police!
0:42:23 > 0:42:28Rescue for the pets held in unbelievable squalor.
0:42:28 > 0:42:33She's skinny. She's probably at the body condition of, like, one to two. She should be at five.
0:42:33 > 0:42:38- Three would be normal.- The pony left in pain by a DIY pedicure.
0:42:38 > 0:42:42Here, these have been taken off very, very straight.
0:42:42 > 0:42:46I don't know if that hurts at all, it might do. Does that hurt at all, mate?
0:42:46 > 0:42:49And it's a case of trial and error...
0:42:49 > 0:42:53- They flew about 50 yards.- ..getting these swifts back to the skies.
0:42:54 > 0:42:56Brilliant, brilliant, well done.
0:42:56 > 0:42:57You are better at it than I am.
0:43:10 > 0:43:14Subtitles by Red Bee Media Ltd
0:43:14 > 0:43:18E-mail subtitling@bbc.co.uk