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(January 27, 2022)
Houston SPCA investigators and barn staff rescued over 40 emaciated horses from a property in Washington County in March 2021. They discovered multiple carcasses and scores of bones, including a skull of what appeared to be a young horse.
The owner’s family reached out to the Houston SPCA for assistance. They reported that the horses, mainly Paso Finos, were not being taken care of properly.
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“It is critical that owners reach out when they need life-saving assistance with their animals. Don’t wait until it’s too late,” said Adam Reynolds, Chief Animal Cruelty Investigator. “It became clear there was suffering and neglect for a significant amount of time once we discovered all of the bones.”
However, in the year since the rescue, Houston SPCA veterinarians and barn staff have treated the rescued horses for various injures. Staff also provided them with quality nutrition. Previously, the animals had been on the brink of starvation, chewing the bark off of trees on the property. Many of the mares delivered foals in the months afterwards. Staff worked with the unsocialized animals, rehabilitating and training them before adoption.
Many who were near-feral are now adopted. It took time, but they warmed up to human contact and became familiar with routine care and riding.
Many of the horses have gone on to be adopted or have been placed with sanctuaries. The incredible efforts of the Houston SPCA barn and veterinary team made it possible! The remaining horses continue to receive veterinary care, proper nutrition, and rehabilitation.
To report animal cruelty, call 713-869-SPCA (7722) or file a report online.
