Florida Veterinarian Facing Cruelty Charges Arrested Again

Gail Nichols, DVM, and her husband, allegedly failed to treat a horse in their care for a dental issue.
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A Florida veterinarian and her husband already accused of maltreating 30 horses are facing new charges for allegedly failing to treat a horse in their care.

In August the Polk County, Florida, Sheriff’s Office (PCSO) found 28 Miniature and two full-size horses residing in dirt lots without hay, grass, or water access on property owned by Gail Nichols, DVM, and her husband Paul Craig Smith. A veterinary investigation revealed that the horses appeared to be emaciated and in poor general health. The horses were subsequently removed to the Polk County Animal Control facility, where three of the Miniature Horses were euthanized due to their condition.

Authorities arrested and charged Nichols and Smith with three counts of felony animal cruelty, one count of misdemeanor animal cruelty, and five counts of confinement of animals without sufficient food, water, or shelter. That case remains pending.

Earlier this month, however, authorities again arrested Smith and Nichols and charged them with animal cruelty after authorities determined that a horse was untreated for a dental condition and subsequent infection while in their care prior to the original arrest

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Written by:

Pat Raia is a veteran journalist who enjoys covering equine welfare, industry, and news. In her spare time, she enjoys riding her Tennessee Walking Horse, Sonny.

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