Abused Horses Seized

RAYWOOD, December 30, 2008 - On Thursday, December 18, 2008 at approximately 2:00 PM Constable Russell Pierce received several complaints in reference to several emaciated horses. Constable Pierce and his deputy, Les Hulsey initiated an investigation into the incident and found the horses had no food and were dinking water out of several low spots in the pasture. The horses appeared to be malnourished to the extent that on all except one their ribs, backbone, and hip bones were protruding.

The horses were in a pasture on CR190, 3/4 of a mile, north of US 90. After checking with neighbors in the area it was found no one had been feeding the animals for several months. Constable Pierce photographed the animals and contacted the Houston SPCA with the photos and information on the condition of the horses. Investigator Debbie Michchielson reviewed the evidence and advised the officers to prepare an affidavit of seizure and a seizure warrant so the animals could be removed and further evaluated.

At approximately 10:45 am, 3 investigators with the Houston SPCA arrived at the location and met Constable Pierce. The investigators photographed and did a preliminary field exam on the animals and came to the same conclusion as Pierce and his deputy and ordered the warrant executed.

8 horses were penned in portable pens set up by the Investigators, who then rounded up the animals and loaded them into the SPCA trailer. After loading the horses the animals were examined and they were found to have lice and their hooves were in poor condition. One had an infection in its hoof. Additionally there were open sores on the legs of several of the horses.

The animals will be examined and treated at the SPCA facility in Houston. A seizure hearing is scheduled for January 6th to determine the final disposition of the horses. Prior to the hearing the SPCA veterinarian will determine the extent of their injuries and illnesses, and in what condition the horses were at the time of the seizure.

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