The Pennsylvania SPCA rescued three horses and found one dead after shutting down an illegal stable in North Philadelphia, according to officials.
Investigators say it happened at a property 11th Street and Allegheny Avenue. The SPCA officials say they have investigated an illegal stable operation there for several weeks. The owner of the property was illegally renting out stall space to several people, according to the SPCA. Officials say the horses were being kept in a series of ramshackle structures.
The SPCA rescued two emaciated horses and found two dead horses in the lot over the past year, according to officials. They ordered the owner to cease operations and remove all animals. The owner allegedly kept the horses on the premises and brought in more within the last week in defiance of the order. The SPCA issued a search warrant on Tuesday and ended up rescuing three horses while removing a dead one.
The horses were brought back to the Pennsylvania SPCA where they will be examined and receive veterinary care. They will then be transferred to the Danville Branch of the Pennsylvania SPCA or to a rescue group. The SPCA also says the dead animal will undergo a necropsy to determine the cause of death.
The SPCA believes the owner of the property and the owner of the dead horse will be charged with animal cruelty pending the outcome of the investigation.
