A large-scale animal cruelty bust near Yelm resulted in the rescue of neglected horses and the arrest of four individuals. More than 500 roosters allegedly bred for cockfighting were also seized during the raid. Terry Phelps, operations director of Save a Forgotten Equine (SAFE), was present during the rescue operation and reflected on the condition of the animals.
The Thurston County Sheriff’s Office discovered the neglected horses and other livestock during the bust. Fifteen horses were found alive, but some were in poor condition and one was too injured to survive. SAFE has taken in eight of the rescued horses and is focused on training them for adoption. The organization named the group of horses “Valentine’s Herd” due to their rescue close to Valentine’s Day.
Animal cruelty cases have sparked discussions about legislation, including House Bill 1149 in Olympia focusing on animal fighting. SAFE is continuing its mission to rehabilitate the rescued horses and is seeking public support for the care and recovery of the Valentine’s Herd. Large-scale rescues require significant resources and effort, and donations are helping to support the organization’s efforts.
