Original Article: https://blog.theanimalrescuesite.greatergood.com/50-neglected-animals-seized-maine/

A woman from Sanford, Maine, has been banned from owning animals for life after over 50 neglected animals were seized from her property.

On July 14, animal welfare officials seized twenty horses, eleven chickens, two pigs, six dogs, six cats, two geckos, three rats, and one bearded dragon from the property. Various animal rescues stepped up to care for the animals until forever homes can be found.

Maine State Society for the Protection of Animals (MSSPA) took in all twenty horses and are working with farriers and vets to restore them to health.

A senior gelding arrived in one of the worse conditions the rescue has ever seen. It broke their hearts to see him “hobble” off the trailer.

“Nearly 200 pounds underweight, covered in rain rot and lice, and with overgrown hooves and sharp teeth, this is one of the most badly neglected horses we have ever seen,” posted the shelter.

But the horse still has a strong spirit and will to live, so the rescue is going to do everything they can to help him.

All of the horses are in desperate need of dental work and hoof trimming, and many are underweight.

“Their medical needs are extensive, but we are committed to getting each and every member of the herd what they need–from hoof and dental care to medical treatments and a healthy diet. And of course, time and love,” wrote the rescue.

The woman, who’s name has not been released, will not face charges. She admitted she could no longer care for the animals at the possession hearing and received a lifetime animal possession ban. However, she will be able to “ask the court to amend the ban in five years,” states Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry.

Anyone interested in adopting the animals is asked to check the Animal Welfare Society’s website and MSSPA for updates.

Source: The Animal Rescue Site Blog