According to a North Carolina Humane Society, animal cruelty investigators had to euthanize a horse found starving to death in Polk county last week. The horse was among six equines impounded after a utility worker noticed one of the animals appeared to be sick and dying.
Four horses, a pony and a donkey were rescued from a penned in area where they apparently had been left with no food or water. All of the animals were in varying stages of starvation.
The donkey was found in a small pen in mud and feces, and had hooves so long he was barely able to walk. He's since had his hooves cut and the surviving animals are being cared for in foster homes.
Anyone who wants to help the equines or who is willing to adopt one can contact the Foothills Humane Society at 828-863-4444.