Breaking: Eight ponies marooned on municipal land prompt veterinary care and police involvement
In Haren, along teh Hertenlaan, eight ponies—including a foal—are reportedly kept on a field owned by the Groningen municipality. Residents describe a harsh living situation with little food, scarce fresh water, and no shelter from harsh whether. The owner, arjan Britstran of Handelsonderneming Bitstra, based in Peize, has a history of neglect allegations, and neighbors have repeatedly stepped in to feed and water the animals.
Sharply deteriorating conditions prompt veterinary action
Concerned locals say the ponies arrived at the field about two months ago and have been inadequately cared for from the start. One animal was so weak it had to be separated from the group for safety, and authorities were alerted after conditions worsened with snow and cold. The pony was transported to a veterinarian for urgent care after a police call directed the NVWA to intervene.
NVWA response under scrutiny
Authorities acknowledge the welfare concerns, but some neighbors report a contrast between official assessments and visible conditions. The inspector cited adequate food and water, noting two large straw bales and water buckets on site. Neighbors contest this, saying the straw bales were not placed by the owner and that the animals had access to the hay only after consuming plastic packaging, wich created broader health risks as the hay’s moisture and aeration shifted over time.
More ponies removed from the field
Sources close to the case say additional ponies were taken away by order of authorities after further inspections. The foal’s mother was also sick and sent to a vet, with two more ponies slated for removal due to severe weakness. The NVWA reportedly left the remaining ponies on site because water and food were present, a stance that has drawn criticism from neighbors who say such care is insufficient given the animals’ fragile condition.
Bitstra’s troubled record with animal welfare
The property owner has faced recurring scrutiny over animal neglect. The case follows prior attention in 2022, when Bitstra’s ponies and donkeys were found on municipal land lacking proper care during a severe storm. Neighbors again intervened to provide food and water and to safeguard the animals during the weather event. Public reporting over the years notes past penalties and court losses related to animal welfare violations, including a significant fine from the NVWA.
Police involvement and lease considerations
Authorities confirmed a police response after a morning report described a pony unable to rise, with the animal later relocated by the owner along with two others. The police notified the NVWA of the incident. Separately, municipal officials say they are reviewing the lease terms that allow Bitstra to keep animals on municipal land, though details of potential remedies or revisions have not been disclosed. The owner could not be reached for comment, and neighbors describe him as aggressive and temperamental, noting that inquiries are often made anonymously.
What lies ahead for enforcement and welfare?
Municipal officials say they are examining the contract options available to respond to ongoing welfare concerns. The case underscores ongoing tensions between animal-keeping practices, municipal oversight, and provincial welfare authorities as they balance enforcement with practical land-use arrangements.
Key facts at a glance
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Municipal field along Hertenlaan, Haren, Groningen |
| Owner | Arjan Britstran, Handelsonderneming Bitstra, Peize |
| Animals | Eight ponies (including a foal) |
| Current action | Ponies removed as warranted; one pony to a vet; NVWA and police involved |
| Recent history | Repeated concerns over neglect; prior incidents noted in 2022; fines reported by NVWA |
| Municipal stance | Lease terms under review; reasons for ongoing lease not disclosed |
| Current bottleneck | Discrepancies between inspector statements and neighbor observations |
evergreen context for readers
Animal welfare investigations frequently enough hinge on credible documentation, timely veterinary assessments, and coordinated action between police, veterinary services, and inspectors.Communities play a vital role by reporting signs of neglect, while authorities balance enforcement with land-use arrangements and owner accountability. Staying informed helps residents advocate for stronger protections and clearer protocols when animals are at risk.
What you can do
If you observe signs of animal neglect or have details about welfare concerns, contact local authorities or the NVWA. Document observations safely and promptly report them to assist investigations and potential interventions.
Questions for readers: Have you seen similar welfare concerns in your area, and what steps should municipalities take to prevent neglect on leased land? What reforms would you propose to improve oversight of animal-keeping on municipal property?
Share your thoughts and experiences below to spark a constructive discussion.
Disclaimer: This report reflects reported observations and official responses to animal welfare concerns. For health and legal considerations, consult relevant authorities.
Vries, a 58‑year‑old horse breeder with a previously clean record.
.Background of the Groningen Field Incident
- In early 2025 farmers and local riders noticed several ponies on the open‑field area near the village of Beilen, Groningen, showing signs of severe neglect.
- The field, historically used for community grazing, was privately owned by Johan de Vries, a 58‑year‑old horse breeder with a previously clean record.
- Photographs posted on the regional “Dierenbescherming Groningen” Facebook page triggered a wave of concern, prompting the Groningen Animal Welfare Authority to request an on‑site inspection.
Key Signs of Equine Neglect Observed
- Undernourishment – visible ribs, sunken eyes, and thin manes.
- Unsanitary surroundings – stagnant water, mud‑filled pens, and accumulation of manure.
- Inadequate shelter – broken or missing stables,exposing ponies to wind and rain.
- Lameness and untreated injuries – limping, swollen joints, and unhealed wounds.
- Behavioral stress – excessive skittishness, lack of social interaction with other herd members.
Veterinary intervention and Rescue Process
- Dr. Marieke van Dijk, a licensed equine veterinarian with Groningen Veterinary Clinic, led the rescue after receiving an emergency call from the animal welfare team.
- Immediate actions taken:
- Assessment – physical exam, body condition scoring, and blood work to detect dehydration and infection.
- Stabilization – IV fluids, electrolyte replacement, and temporary pain relief.
- Transport – specialized equine trailers moved the ponies to the Groningen Animal Rescue Center for quarantine and rehabilitation.
- The veterinary team documented each animal’s condition through a detailed health report, which became a critical piece of evidence for the subsequent police case file.
Police Examination Procedures
- Groningen County Police (Politie Groningen) opened a formal animal cruelty investigation under Article 2 of the Dutch Animal Welfare Act.
- Investigation steps included:
- Scene preservation – forensic photographers captured the field’s condition before cleaning.
- Witness interviews – statements from neighboring farmers, riders, and the Facebook post author.
- Evidence collection – feed receipts,water supply records,and veterinary reports.
- Search warrant execution – officers inspected storage barns for illegal animal feed or equipment.
- The case is now being reviewed by the Public Prosecution Service (Openbaar Ministerie) for potential charges of severe animal neglect and violation of the EU Directive 2010/63/EU on animal welfare.
Legal Framework for Animal Cruelty in the Netherlands
- Dutch Animal Welfare Act (Wet Dierenbescherming) defines neglect as failure to provide sufficient food, water, shelter, or veterinary care.
- Penalties range from €5,000 fines to up to two years of imprisonment for aggravated cases.
- The Animal Protection Board (Dierenbescherming) can issue administrative orders requiring immediate corrective measures, such as mandated feeding plans or relocation of animals.
Impact on Local Community and Animal Welfare Organizations
- Volunteer surge – over 30 community members signed up for daily feeding rotations at the rescue center.
- Fundraising outcome – a crowdfunding campaign raised €22,400 within two weeks, covering medical supplies and transport costs.
- Policy response – Groningen’s municipal council voted to increase routine inspections of private grazing lands by 20 % starting Q3 2026.
Practical Tips for Spotting and Reporting Horse Abuse
- Observe: Look for emaciation, untreated injuries, and lack of shelter.
- Document: Take clear photos with timestamps; note the exact location and date.
- Report: Call the Dutch animal welfare hotline 0800‑0100 or use the “Meld Dierenmishandeling” app.
- Follow up: Keep a record of your report reference number and any subsequent communications.
Case Study: Comparable Rescue Operations in the EU
| Country | Incident | Rescue Agency | Legal Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|
| Germany | 2023 “Bavarian Draft Horses” neglect case | Tierärztliche Notaufnahme München | Owner fined €10,000; two-year custodial sentence |
| France | 2024 “Alsace Pony Farm” abandonment | SPA – Société Protectrice des Animaux | Farm seized; animals rehomed in certified sanctuaries |
| Spain | 2025 “Catalonia Mini‑equine” illegal breeding | Red Cross Veterinary Unit | Ownership revoked; 18 months of community service |
These examples illustrate the increasing coordination between veterinary professionals, law enforcement, and animal protection NGOs across Europe, reinforcing the legal precedent that owner neglect can lead to swift vet rescue and police prosecution.
