*UPDATE* Jan. 22, 2018 – OHS Special Agent Austin Wallace issued citations to two people for animal neglect in the second degree.
Acting to save neglected animals, OHS seized nine horses from residents in Molalla on Dec. 19, 2017. The horses were not receiving minimum care and eight of the horses were underweight.
The condition of the horses came to the attention of OHS through multiple reports from members of the public, including detailed statements and photographs. The witnesses described horses that were extremely thin, did not have access to food or water and were standing in deep mud. One witness was concerned that some of the horses might not survive the winter.
An OHS Humane Special Agent visited the property but an owner of the horses was not willing to give any details about the animals. OHS then applied for and received a search warrant from a Clackamas County Circuit judge authorizing investigators to remove any neglected animals from the property.
Working with the Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office, OHS executed the search warrant on the property on S Sawtell Road in Molalla on the morning of December 19. Sound Equine Options, a Troutdale-based nonprofit, assisted in removing the horses and will be providing ongoing medical care as needed.
“It’s a crime in Oregon to deprive animals of the food, water and medical care they need to survive,” said OHS President Sharon Harmon. “If you can’t provide for the animals in your care, please reach out for assistance. Don’t let your animals suffer.”
The horses are in the custody of Sound Equine Options and are being cared for at an undisclosed location. They are currently not available for adoption or viewing by the public.
In Oregon, second degree animal neglect is punishable by fines of up to $2,500 and six months in jail.
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