The Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office seized three malnourished horses from a property in New River after the owner said she left their care up to “transients” and “hobos.”

Veterinarians who assessed the animals said they were in the worst possible condition, with bones noticeably sticking out, according to an MCSO statement.

Officials said the horses were found on Sept. 13 after the MCSO responded to a tip on their Animal Crimes Hotline reporting a “skinny horse” at 46855 N. New River Road. They located the horses, but were told by the owners of the property that the horses were owned by someone else.

When officials located the owner of the horses, she told them the horses hadn’t received medical care in 18 months and the “transients” and “hobos” she left in charge of the horses had failed to care for them.

Officials said she refused to sign over rights to the animals, so they obtained a search warrant and seized them. The horses are now receiving emergency care at the Durango Equine Veterinary Clinic.

Sheriff Paul Penzone said there is no excuse for a lack of animal care.

“If you own a house pet or any animal, you are personally responsible for making sure they’re fed and receive proper veterinary care,” Penzone said. “Report situations like this one to the MCSO Animal Crimes Hotline at 602-876-1681.”

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