Milan, MO  (KTRS)   Six horses and two mules are being cared for by the Humane Society of Missouri after being rescued from a property in north central Missouri on Monday.

Officials with the Humane Society say the animals were living on one acre of land barren of all forage at the property in Milan in Sullivan County.  All are said to be severely emaciated.

According to the Humane Society, “The Animal Cruelty Task Force first became aware of the situation in June and tried to work with the owner to improve conditions for the animals. The animals’ conditions continued to deteriorate and it became apparent the owners were unwilling to properly care for the animals.”  The Sheriff’s Officethen obtained a warrant for removal of the animals.

“Allowing animals to slowly starve to death is the very definition of cruelty,” said Kathy Warnick, president of the Humane Society of Missouri and Longmeadow Rescue Ranch.

“We are recommending prosecution to the fullest extent of the law and will do everything we can to give these animals the second chances they so desperately deserve.” added Warnick.

Six counts of animal abuse and neglect are pending against the owners. A disposition hearing to determine permanent custody will be held at 11 a.m. Monday, Oct. 24, 2016 at the Sullivan County Courthouse in Milan, Mo.

The animals are being cared for at the Humane Society’s Longmeadow Rescue Ranch.

Donations to help in the  care for these horses and mules may be made online at www.longmeadowrescueranch.org/donate or by calling 314-951-1542.