Cold weather raises concerns for neglected horses

Tuesday, November 26th 2002, 12:00 am

By: News On 6

HENNESSEY, Okla. (AP) _ Volunteers caring for more than 100 starving horses found in a Kingfisher County pasture last week say colder weather may take its toll on the fragile animals.

One horse died Sunday, bringing the number of horses dead of neglect to 28. Workers spent Monday trying to herd the surviving horses into barns and carports set up as a makeshift shelters.

``As sick as they were, you just don't know,'' said Erin Wood, a friend of farmers Gene and Janie Richardson who own the land where the horses have been moved.

The horses are not for sale or adoption, but Wood said items may be donated. She said there's especially a need for all types of blankets and bleach with which to sterilize them. A fund has also been set up for the horses' care at a Hennessey bank.

Wood says the horses have improved since they were brought to the Richardsons' farm.

``They have more energy,'' she said. ``Their eyes have a sparkle back to them. They want attention now.''

Ard Gates, a Kingfisher County assistant district attorney, urged patience as deputies try to determine who is responsible for the horses' neglect. The sheriff's department has asked for help from the state Department of Agriculture.

``This matter is not closed,'' Gates said.

Sheriff's deputy Joe Courtright said investigators are interviewing three people about their possible ownership of the horses. Retired veterinarian Jess Brewer of Enid has said he bought the horses from an Arizona Indian reservation and had a partnership with others to care for the animals.

Brewer is the first veterinarian to be investigated for animal cruelty by Oklahoma's veterinary licensing board in at least the past year or so, said Cathy Kirkpatrick, executive director of the state Veterinary Examiners Board.

``I would say it's very unusual,'' Kirkpatrick said.

Depending on results of a veterinary board investigation and hearing, Brewer could be reprimanded, put on probation, have his license suspended or lose his license. Kirkpatrick said the board will consider action in the case no earlier than January.

She said Brewer has never been disciplined by the board.