You probably have a ton of responses on this subject already; we all have
cases in our own backyards. Several years ago I and some neighbors called
the sheriff's department regarding some abused/starving horses. They came
out and looked at the horses and told us as long as the horses were on
their feet, there was nothing they could do. A few weeks later we called
again. This time three horses were euthanized on the spot, too weak to
get up, the others were sent to the auction for slaughter. The owner was
fined and even lost his job. (Apparently the boss wasn't impressed.)
Time and time again we run across these stories. I have found myself
feeding horses that aren't mine in the past. The sheriff, humane department,
and animal control have very little jurisdiction. It is sad, but I don't
see much resolution there. You pretty much have to take matters into your
own hands. I offered $100 to an owner of a starving horse, which she took,
and nursed the horse back to health, eventually finding a good home for it.
In some cases I almost think it's better for the horse to be put down. Once
they have been sorely depleted their bones and tissue have been so compromised
that they are little good for any use later on.
Alice, my best advice to you is keep bugging the sheriff and humane control.
Get everyone you know to call every day. And if you can take the animal,
ask the owner what they would consider. Be absolutely polite and cordial.
You catch more flies with honey than vinegar. I'm sure you would find a
number of people (myself included) who would donate money to help. It may
even help to enlist the aid of a veterinarian. My vet has always been good
about coming to the rescue. Good luck, persevere. These stories always,
always break my heart because for every one you hear about there is a dozen
other cases out there. I despise ignorance when it comes to animal husbandry.
Joyce