Two horses were seized from a North County ranch after the death of a horse last month sparked an investigation by the San Diego County Department of Animal Services and the District Attorney’s Office, according to authorities.
The ranch, located in the 7400 block of Artesian Road, has been under investigation since last month, after a horse named Penny died.
Deputies with the San Diego County Sheriff’s Office and Animal Services officials served a warrant Friday to evaluate all animals on the property. They found two horses with low body condition scores and impounded them for further examination and to ensure proper care, county officials said.
“Our animal care officers are committed to serving the county of San Diego for animal rescues, relinquishment, and animal cruelty or neglect investigations in the unincorporated areas of San Diego County,” Animal Services Director Vaughn Maurice said.
Vaughn was joined at the property by Assistant Animal Services Director Rachael Borrelli, Animal Control Lt. Lewis Peterson, Dr. Caitlin Manring of East County Large and Small Animal Practice and two sheriff’s deputies.
No charges have been filed, but the case remains open and the investigation is ongoing, authorities said