Nearly 20 head died, 34 head and 9 calves survived.
50 Plus Heads of Cattle and Calves Neglected to Point of Starvation, LIVINGSTON, March 26, 2009 - On March 18, 2009, SPCA Director, Penny Glienke placed a phone call to the Polk County Sheriff's Office concerning an urgent situation involving severe animal neglect. Glienke advised that there were multiple heads of cattle living in unsanitary, squalor conditions at a residence on Wobbly Bobbly Tram Road located in the subdivision of Wiggins Village II. Glienke further advised that the cattle were dying of starvation and many were down on the ground unable to get up, and near death. Animal Control Officer Crystal Rogers and Deputy Mike Nettles were dispatched to the location to meet Glienke and investigate. Nettles stated that there were 42 head of cattle, 9 calves, 2 down on the west side of the property. Nettles further advised that multiple heads of cattle had already died of apparent starvation. Nettles also pointed out that the surviving animals were in desperate need of food, water, and medical treatment. Veterinarian Dr. Curbo was dispatched to the scene and stated that the animals will die if they didn't receive immediate medical attention. Nearly 20 head of cattle died at the residence on Wobbly Bobbly Tram. Justice of the Peace Precinct 1, Judge Darrell Longino signed an order of seizure and the cattle were removed from the property and transported to Livingston Livestock Exchange where they are currently being fed hay and range cubes daily. 34 head of cattle and 9 calves are slowly being nursed back to health with food being supplied by the Livingston Livestock Exchange and the Polk County SPCA.
The Owner of the animals, Hector Martinez, of Conroe faces charges of cruelty to animals (possibly a felony).
If you would like to comment on this story, we'd love to hear from you. Your name will be listed with your comment when it's posted in the Letters to the editor.
