The image of just how emaciated these horses are really tells the story, you can see their bones through their skin, and some can barely stand."It's horrible to see them like this,” said Dr. Kristen Wallert, veterinarian.
Dr. Wallert is caring for the horses and says they're in some of the worst conditions she's ever seen. They were so starved the horses were eating wood, dirt and sand to try and stay alive.
"Basically they are like a wild horse situation except they're contained in fences where they can't get to natural food or water,” said Dr. Wallert.
The horses are not only suffering from starvation but also horrible bacterial infections. Animal control seized the horses from a property in Madera County after a passerby noticed how skinny they were- that call could have saved their lives.
"Animals don't have voices, the public is their voice a concerned citizen is their voice. It's great when the public does speak up,” said Amy Toler, animal control.
Animal control says the owners have been charged with animal cruelty. We're told all 12 horses are young and everyone at the shelter is hopeful they will have another chance at life.
“We have these 12 horses that are going to have a chance with just some food," said Dr. Wallert.
The shelter is in desperate need of hay, bags of feed, and buckets. If you’d like to help you can call the Madera Animal Shelter at 559-675-7891. Or you can drop off donations at 14269 Road 28, Madera CA.
