Cumberland County Animal Services on Monday removed seven horses from Witts End Quarter Horses farm after receiving multiple complaints about animal abuse.
A video posted on the social media platform Nextdoor appears to show horses on the farm being tied up and dragged behind four-wheelers, as well as being sprayed in the face with water hoses.
Witts End Quarter Horses, located in the 4800 block of Enniskillen Road in Fayetteville, breeds and sells horses by consignment, according to one of its social media profiles.
Animal Services used a search warrant to remove two adult horses and four foals. At a news conference Tuesday afternoon, Animal Services Director Elaine Smith said she removed only animals the agency considered to be at high risk of abuse because of space concerns at its shelter. The conditions of other animals left on the property, she said, are being monitored.
The seized horses are being held at the Cumberland County Animal Shelter, 4704 Corporation Drive, while the investigation continues. An equine veterinarian is assessing the condition of the horses and aiding the investigation. No results from the animals’ exams have been made public.
No charges have been filed. Animal Services did not release additional information because of the active investigation, which is being conducted in conjunction with the Cumberland County Sheriff's Office.
Representatives of Witts End Quarter Horses could not be reached for comment. The company’s website and social media platforms have been made private.
