EPHRATA - Four neglected Arabian horses found in June near Ephrata have been nursed back to health by a volunteer horse rescue group from Ellensburg.

Grant County Sheriff's Animal Control Officer Larry Ledeboer responded to a call on County Road A Northwest near Ephrata to find the horses in a corral exhibiting signs of severe malnutrition, according to Sheriff's Chief Deputy Ryan Rectenwald.

Ledeboer contacted volunteers with Rodeo City Equine Rescue, a non-profit group based in Ellensburg aiming to rescue and provide foster care for horses that are victims of abuse or neglect.

The group determined each of the four horses were in poor condition, Rectenwald said. All were extremely emaciated, with no fatty tissue and spines, ribs, tailheads, hip joints and lower pelvic bones protruding against the skin.

Rescue volunteers took custody of the horses, which were evaluated, treated and vaccinated by a veterinarian, Rectenwald said.

Wednesday, after nearly three months in the care of Rescue volunteers, Rectenwald said the horses are thriving.

"Each horse has gained around 125 pounds and are continuing their rehabilitation thanks to the dedication of the Rodeo City Equine Rescue," he stated.

The sheriff's office forwarded an animal neglect report to the Grant County Prosecutor's Office and charges are likely to be filed against the previous owner, Rectenwald said.

For more information on Rodeo City Equine Rescue, visit www.rodeocityequine.com.