LYNDONVILLE — On Saturday night 21 horses were rescued from the Bona Ranch in Lyndonville, following a rescue organized by the Elizabeth Brown Humane Society.
The Caledonia County Sheriff’s Department had been made aware of the situation at the ranch before, responding to reports of lack of proper food and water. After a complaint came in Friday night about a dead horse located on the grounds, a search warrant for the Bona Ranch was issued.
According to an eyewitness account, the horses rescued Saturday were so hungry, they had started to eat a wood fence located at the ranch. Other reports stated that there were as many as six dead horses located during the rescue. The horses were described as dehydrated, as well as being covered in body sores.
The investigation is ongoing, and nobody knows the reason why the ranch had neglected the animals. What is known is that the owner had passed away about a year ago, and that his son had taken over operations.
No charges have been been filed yet, but criminal charges will most likely be issued.
Spring Hill Horse Rescue in Clarendon assisted in the effort to relocate the horses.
