Muskogee family caring for starving horses

Thursday, January 16th 2003, 12:00 am

By: News On 6

One man is charged with animal cruelty in Muskogee after a half dozen horses were found starving. News on Six anchor Craig Day has the story of a man and his family now caring for the horses.

It's the first good meal these horses in Muskogee have had in months. Skin, bones, near death a week and a half ago. They're slowly regaining their strength, thanks to EJ Mayes. â€œProbably I'd say a year old. She's just a big old pet." EJ Mayes is the person called around Muskogee when animals are in need. "If they can't afford to feed them, they don't need the horses, they ought to sell them or give them to somebody who can take care of them."

A horse lover all his life, Mayes was shocked at the condition of a half dozen horses, they had scarce food. "Brown and white paint here. Little water, you can see her ribs." One horse was found dead. Their owner is charged with animal cruelty. "I hate to see anything starving." So Mayes and his son, Steve are doing what they can to help the horses, providing the care their owner didn't. It isn't the first time they've helped.

Steve Mayes, "We took 40 something pigs one time, we've picked up an Emu, horses, starving cows from Breyertown once, all kinds of stuff." The Mayes say this time of year, even with food and water; it will take several months for the horses to return to good health. What will happen to them next, is still up in the air. A judge will likely decide whether they'll go back to their owner, are sold or adopted. Until that day comes, EJ Mayes and his son will be there, with food, water and care.

While Mayes takes care of the horses, their owner, Herman Logan, Jr is charged with animal cruelty. He has told police someone else was supposed to be taking care of the animals.

A court hearing will be held in two weeks in Muskogee.