A New York State animal welfare agency says it faces major bills in the wake of the biggest horse rescue in its history.
Finger Lakes SPCA, in New York State, took a key role in a two-day rescue effort in Troupsburg, where 82 horses and five cats were seized.
The seizure was the result of an ongoing animal cruelty investigation being conducted by the SPCA branch.
A search warrant obtained by the SPCA was served early on Friday morning.
It was served by Officer Scott Mazzo, an animal cruelty investigator for the Finger Lakes SPCA, with help from the state police and the Steuben County District Attorney's Office
Most of the horses seized were determined to be in poor physical condition with immediate need for medical, grooming and farriery care.
"Most will need rehabilitative care," an SPCA spokesperson said. "Seventy-eight horses are in 10 foster care homes in Steuben and other counties across New York State. The five cats are being cared for at Finger Lakes SPCA, in Bath, New York."
It is understood four of the horses were euthanized.
Expenses for the rescue and the care of the horses in the first month are expected to reach $US20,000 and help was needed.
Charges were pending, the SPCA said. The seizure of the animals took two full days and was supported by more than 35 volunteers. Two veterinarians and the Hornell Area Humane Society also assisted.
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