The Lyon County Animal Services Division initiated an investigation of the Starlight Sanctuary in Silver Springs, due to complaints of mistreatment of horses. Officers viewed approximately 70 horses on the property.
Officers found appropriate feed and water for the animals and observed some horses that were underweight or had other health concerns. Animal Services has requested veterinarian to respond to the site to determine the health of the animals in question.
Lyon County Animal Services reports the sanctuary, an animal rescue operation, has been in existence for the past decade with no reported violations of county code or state law. Lyon County Animal Services will continue their investigation into the allegations and determine if any county codes or state laws have been violated.
Lyon County Animal Services has also been working an additional allegation of animal abuse/neglect at a 4th Street, Silver Springs location. In this case it has been reported that numerous barnyard animals had been left unattended by a renter.
Lyon County Animal Services discovered that the multiple animal operation had been under the care of a friend until food had run out. The property owner has been providing feed and volunteers have been used to feed and water the animals.
Lyon County Animal Services has requested a veterinarian to respond to the sight and determine the health of the animals. This case is also an active criminal investigation.
Both of these cases are criminal investigations. Lyon County has received numerous calls and e-mails about what is happening with these cases and the possibility of adopting the animals in question. Upon completion of the investigation reports will be forwarded to the District Attorney’s office for determination of charges and disposition of the animals. Lyon County has and will continue to monitor the animals to ensure that they are receiving food, water and following the medical directions issued by the Veterinarian.