VAN ZANDT COUNTY, Texas -- The SPCA of Texas has seized 87 animals from a property near Canton after more than 50 horses were found dead.
The Van Zandt County sheriff's and constable's offices assisted the SPCA in the seize, which took place at a location self-described as "sanctuary" for animals.
Seventy horses, nine donkeys, six pigs, and one longhorn were seized. More than 50 horses were found dead in "various states of decomposition on the property," the SPCA said.
Officials took one horse for a necropsy to find out the exact cause of death.
The SPCA said the animals lived on a large fenced-in pasture and didn't have access to food with little access to water. Some of the horses were so desperate for food, they were eating bark off trees. The pigs were in a small wire pen and had no access to food.
"The animals appear to have varying health issues, including malnourishment, open sores, nasal discharge, diarrhea, hair loss, overgrown and cracked hooves, fly bites and other injuries," the SPCA said.
As for the owners, the SPCA said they began investigating on March 3, working with the owners and educating them on proper care and feeding for the horses, "entering into an agreement with them to bring the animals' conditions into compliance with Texas Health and Safety Code."
At the time, they didn't know about the deceased horses on the property.
Investigators returned to check on the owners and animals on March 15 and March 28.
On March 30, someone called about the deceased horses. The SPCA returned with law enforcement officials and began seizing the animals with a warrant on April 10.
All of the pigs were taken to the Russell H. Perry Animal Care Center in McKinney, while the living horses, donkeys, and longhorn were taken to an offsite facility for examination and care.
A custody hearing is scheduled for April 19. The Van Zandt County Sheriff's Office declined to comment on whether the owners will face charges.
If you would like to help the SPCA of Texas in its efforts to help these animals, go here.
