Woman arrested for felony animal neglect, 11 horses seized
–On July 18, the San Luis Obispo County Sheriff’s Rural Crime Unit completed its investigation regarding an animal neglect case in California Valley. This investigation resulted in the seizure of 11 horses from property located in the 14000 block of Arvin Trail in Santa Margarita. The Sheriff’s Rural Crime Unit along with the assistance of a local ranch, County Animal Services and HEET (Horse Emergency Evacuation Team) were able to round up the horses and have them transported off-site. 
The suspect, Misty Lambert of Paso Robles, had maintained the horses on the property. Through the course of the investigation, it was determined the horses were not provided with adequate food and water for periods as long as six days in temperatures in excess of 100 degrees.
Additionally, one of the horses, a colt, was attacked on multiple occasions by dogs at the location. The colt was ultimately euthanized due to its extensive untreated injuries. Seven of the remaining horses are being held at County Animal Services. The three remaining horses were stallions which were transported to the Equine Center in San Luis Obispo. Charges of felony animal neglect have been filed with the District Attorney’s Office against Lambert.
