When Wagoner County Sheriff’s Office discovered a massive animal‑hoarding operation in eastern Oklahoma, they called on Blaze’s Tribute Equine Rescue for help. Founder Natalee Cross said the rescue was contacted immediately after the investigation began.
Animals rescued from deplorable conditions
Officials found hundreds of horses confined to makeshift pens, many without sunlight or adequate food. “The living conditions were deplorable,” Cross said. “If you can’t care for an animal, you shouldn’t have them.” Among the rescued animals is a year‑old filly that arrived emaciated, anemic, bloated with parasites, and with severely weakened legs.
“She is extremely emaciated. She’s anemic. She’s bloated with parasites. Her legs are not in good shape. If she had not gotten the help she got, those legs would have just eventually crashed underneath her,” Cross explained.
Rescue efforts underway
Blaze’s Tribute Equine Rescue, located in Harrah, has taken in dozens of the rescued horses. Staff are working to restore the animals to a healthy weight and address urgent medical needs. Many are receiving veterinary care for the first time, with initial examinations costing about $300 per horse.
“With the way that everything keeps raising in prices, it gets tough, but I’m going to make sure these animals are fed,” Cross said. “It’s tough, but we are committed to their recovery.”
Community call for support
Cross noted that cases like this are becoming more frequent. “We get about a two‑ to three‑week window, and then another case is popping up,” she said. The rescue is now asking the local community for donations to help cover veterinary expenses, feed, and ongoing care.
“She’s sweet. I think she knows. I think they all know that they’re getting help,” Cross added, observing that the animals seem to recognize the compassion they are receiving.
How to help
Members of the public who wish to support the rescue can donate directly through the organization’s website. Contributions will go toward veterinary bills, feed, and the long‑term rehabilitation of the rescued horses.
Blaze’s Tribute Equine Rescue’s work underscores the importance of vigilant animal‑welfare enforcement and community involvement in protecting vulnerable animals. As more hoarding cases emerge, the partnership between law‑enforcement and local rescues remains vital to ensuring that animals receive the care they deserve.
Original reporting: Oklahoma City News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
