News9.com - Oklahoma City, OK - News, Weather, Video and Sports | Starving Horses In Shawnee On Road To Recovery

Gan Matthews, News 9

SHAWNEE, Oklahoma -- Two months ago, three emaciated horses were found and rescued in Shawnee. A local veterinarian described their condition as the worst he had ever seen.

Since then, the three horses have been taken in by Cargo Ranch, a faith-based mission for children as well as horses.

Back on a steady diet, the three horses have put on weight and taken on Biblical names. They are now known as Adah, Adien, and Zephaniah.

"It's a good segue for us to talk to our kids about the gospel," said Carrie Carter, Cargo Ranch co-founder.

Cargo Ranch sits on an acreage north of Shawnee. It provides a safe haven for children and horses.

"We believe God wants us to help them, give them hope," said Debbie Goss, Cargo Ranch co-founder. "And it's the same with his creatures."

In about a year, the three horses should be back to their normal weight. Then, they may stay at Cargo Ranch or be adopted by another family.

The man charged with abusing the horses, John Richard Spangler, has a preliminary hearing scheduled for October 24.