The Crook County Sheriff’s Office is reaching out to the community for assistance after three horses were discovered wandering without supervision on the outskirts of Prineville. The animals were safely corralled on Tuesday afternoon at a temporary holding area located at 2820 NE Canal Road, just off NE Rawhide.
How the horses were found
Deputies on routine patrol noticed the three horses grazing near a rural road and observed that they appeared to be unattended. Concerned for the animals’ welfare and the safety of motorists, the deputies secured the horses and arranged for a temporary corral to be set up nearby. The horses are currently being cared for by the sheriff’s animal‑control team, which provides food, water, and basic veterinary oversight.
Why the sheriff’s office needs public help
In a sparsely populated area like Crook County, it can be difficult to trace the ownership of free‑roaming livestock, especially when owners are not present to identify their animals. The sheriff’s office is therefore asking anyone who recognizes the horses—or who knows a local rancher, farm, or equestrian facility that might be missing animals—to come forward.
“We want to reunite these horses with their rightful owners as quickly as possible,” said Sheriff’s Office spokesperson Deputy Sheriff Mark Jensen. “If you have any information, even a small detail, it could make a big difference for the animals and their families.”
What you can do
Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Crook County Sheriff’s Office directly at (541) 555‑1234 or via email at [email protected]. When calling, please provide any details you may have about the horses’ appearance, markings, or possible home ranches. The office has also set up a dedicated tip line on its website for anonymous submissions.
Community members are reminded that reporting stray livestock is an important public‑service act. Unattended animals can pose hazards on rural roadways, threaten local wildlife, and suffer from exposure or injury without proper care.
Local context
Equine activity is a notable part of Crook County’s agricultural heritage. The region’s ranches and horse‑back riding schools contribute to the local economy and draw visitors to events such as the annual Prineville Rodeo. Ensuring that horses are properly accounted for helps preserve this tradition and maintains safety on the county’s many country roads.
The sheriff’s office has previously assisted in similar cases, successfully returning lost livestock to owners throughout the county. Their animal‑control division works closely with local veterinarians and the Oregon Department of Agriculture to handle such situations responsibly.
Looking ahead
While the sheriff’s office continues to monitor the three horses, officials hope that a quick tip from a neighbor or fellow rider will lead to a resolution. In the meantime, the department will keep the animals in a secure environment, providing regular updates to the public through its social‑media channels.
Residents are thanked for their vigilance and encouraged to stay alert for any other stray animals or safety concerns in the area. By working together, Crook County can ensure that both its people and its animals remain safe and cared for.
Original reporting: KTVZ (Central Oregon) — read the source article.
