Sheriff Seeks Horse Owners in Neglect Case 06-21-2013

          JUNE 21, 2013.

PRESS RELEASE

Parker County Sheriff’s Animal Control officers responded to a call in the 3000 block of Agnes Circle, in Springtown, Wednesday, June 19, 2013, after a concerned citizen reported a horse had injured itself by attempting to jump through the fence and had wandering onto her property.

Sheriff’s Animal Control officers arrived on scene and discovered a gray Arabian stallion which was obviously malnourished, dehydrated and had suffered multiple scrapes and several deep cuts which were infected.

The horse was immediately transported to a local veterinarian for treatment.

The horse’s condition was considered extreme due to its injuries and malnourished state. Veterinarian staff reported the horse, dubbed “Sam,” is expected to survive but is on antibiotics and is medicated in order to manage its pain.

Sheriff’s Animal Control officers discovered Sam had escaped from a nearby property, where another horse was located. Officers obtained a warrant for the property and seized the second horse, a black gelding, nick-named “Jack,” for safe keeping.

Jack will undergo a veterinarian’s evaluation today and is suspected to be slightly malnourished. Jack was discovered with cacti embedded in his facial area, but was not otherwise injured. Jack does not appear to be as malnourished as Sam.

Sheriff’s Animal Control officers reported the property where the horses were located had only a single rotten bale of hay. The only water source on the property was a small stock tank which was very low and appeared to be stagnant.

At this time, no one has come forward to claim either horse. Sheriff’s Animal Control officers are seeking the public’s assistance in identifying Sam and Jack and their possible owners.

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Parker County Sheriff’s Office at (817) 594-8845.

Sheriff Larry Fowler said this is the second horse neglect case within a week.

“We can not stress the importance of taking proper care of animals,” Fowler said. “The heat of summer requires extra care and attention which horses need. We caution all animal owners to provide adequate food, shelter and a constant clean water source for all animals.”

Sheriff Fowler also encourages the public to contact authorities if animal neglect is suspected.