CALIFORNIA -- The County Department of Animal Services seized nearly two dozen extremely malnourished horses from a Ramona woman.
Authorities said they were monitoring the herd belonging to Lori Patton since May 23 after they impounded 10 other emaciated horses.
Patton was notified on July 15 of a possible seizure of the animals if conditions didn’t improve, DAS said. She requested a hearing which took place on Monday.
A hearing officer decided to take 22 horses, eight dogs, a cat, rabbit, guinea pig and three mice, the county reported.
An examination of the horses determined they were all below weight and in need of dental care, a veterinarian said. All animals are receiving medical treatments.
Patton has two weeks to reclaim her animals if she prove she can provide care and pay for all medical and impound costs, the DAS said.
(fox5sandiego.com - July 25, 2013)