A horse in Oregon is suing his former owner for negligence.

According to news reports, Justice, an eight-year-old American quarter horse formerly known as Shadow, has filed a lawsuit against his former owner seeking at least $100,000 in damages for veterinary care, as well as “for pain and suffering.”

The lawsuit, actually filed by the Animal Legal Defense Fund, charges that the horse had been left outside and underfed by his owner, who later pleaded guilty to criminal neglect. After being taken to an equine rescue center, a veterinarian’s exam revealed severe malnourishment, lice infestation and other long-lasting medical conditions requiring care. In addition to seeking to have Justice’s expenses paid for into the future, the case seeks to have the horse recognized as a proper plaintiff.

“There have been a lot of efforts to try to get animals not only to be protected but to have the right to go to court when their rights are violated,” said Matthew Liebman, director of litigation at the Animal Legal Defense Fund. “[Those] haven’t found the right key to the courthouse door. And we’re hopeful that this is the key.”

—Source: Washingtonpost.com