Fifty Horses Saved from Lindale Property

LINDALE — The Humane Society of the United States, SPCA of East Texas, and Humane Society of North Texas worked with the Smith County District Attorney’s Office to rescue 50 horses from a Lindale property. According to information from the national humane society and KETK, an investigator with the Smith County District Attorney’s office served a seizure warrant to the owner of the horses Tuesday evening, allowing the rescuers to begin removing the horses Wednesday. Humane society officials say many of the horses on site were severely emaciated and showed signs of neglect. Rescuers say the animals were suffering from a variety of medical ailments including overgrown hooves and parasite infestation. Rescuers also found several dead horses and numerous equine skeletons on the scene.

“These horses may have been struggling to survive for quite some time, but now thanks to everyone involved in this rescue they will receive the care they so desperately need,” said Nicole Paquette, Texas senior state director for The HSUS. “It is the responsibility of every horse owner to provide humane, responsible care for their horses at all stages of their lives.” Rescuers have been removing all of the horses from the property and transporting them to a temporary shelter. Officials say once the horses reach the shelter, they will be checked by a team of veterinarians and given any necessary immediate medical care. Officials add that the horses will be cared for at the shelter until their custody is determined.