Cincinnati Animal CARE (CAC), Hamilton County’s open-intake animal shelter, is asking the community for help to support a herd of neglected horses seized during a large-scale cruelty case this summer.
Authorities seized the horses from Muddy Water Ranch in Springfield Township in August. Photos of the horses at the time showed signs of severe malnutrition and neglect, including sores, open wounds and visible ribs and hip bones. Owner Clarence Clemons, 68, was charged with 18 counts of animal cruelty. According to an affidavit, Clemons still used the horses for his trail riding business, even as they were suffering.
CAC says, due to repeated court delays, no court-ordered financial assistance has been issued to help care for the horses, who are now under the care of Fighting Chance Rescue and will be for at least another month. Community donations following the horses’ seizure helped fund the initial expenses for feed, hay and medical treatment, but those have been depleted.
“This has truly been a labor of love for Fighting Chance,” Carolyn Evans, executive director of CAC, said in a press release. “Their compassion and perseverance have kept these horses safe and healing for months, but they can’t do it alone. We’re asking the community to once again come together to support their care.”
Any donations will go toward feed, a farrier and veterinary care, as well as any other essential supplies to support the horses’ recovery. Donations can be made here.
Muddy Water Ranch is temporarily closed at this time. Clemons is due back in court on Nov. 25.
