Horses In Animal Abuse Case Moved

Horses at the heart of an animal abuse investigation get a new home. It's been a week since two dozen horses were seized by the Tulsa County deputies. The sheriff's office was working on a place

Wednesday, May 16th 2007, 7:45 am

By: News On 6

Horses at the heart of an animal abuse investigation get a new home. It's been a week since two dozen horses were seized by the Tulsa County deputies. The sheriff's office was working on a place to keep the horses until the case is resolved. News On 6 anchor Craig Day reports that's where the city of Pryor and some Mayes County volunteers stepped in.

The horses are being unloaded at the place that will be home for quite some time. There is plenty of grass and a lot of room.

"All you have to do is look at the horses. These horses are in a great environment compared to where they were last week," said Tulsa County Chief Deputy George Haralson.

Last week, the horses were seized from property in south Tulsa County near Leonard. Deputies say some were injured and others weren't getting enough food or water.

"These horses appear to be happy. And let me tell you I'm happy for the horses," said Haralson.

The horses will stay on property north of Pryor in Mayes County until the case is resolved in court.

This all came about because of an act of generosity from a local land owner who donated 175 acres to the city of Pryor to build a future animal shelter and to provide a home for abused or neglected animals. Those generous donors are Tom and Barbara Giles.

"I've always heard, it's better to give than to receive and this is just an example of it I guess," said Tom Giles.

Pryor Mayor Jimmy Trammel also envisions one day having a shelter and facility used by FFA programs and veterinary students.

"This is the envy of a lot of places because we've got it all already, all we have to do is build a building," said Trammel.

Until it's built, the Giles' figured the pastures would be just right for the horses from Tulsa County.

"I feel like I've contributed a little bit to their welfare. It's a good feeling," said Tom Giles.

The Pryor Animal League is working to raise money through grants, city funds and donations to build the $400,000 animal shelter. Construction should begin soon, with the facility opening this fall.

Related Story:

5/9/2007 Horses Seized In Animal Abuse Investigation