Neglected longhorns from Hill County now up for adoption

JOSHUA, Texas - More than 200 cattle are ready to be adopted after being seized by the Hill County Sheriff’s Department.

The animals were taken from a ranch in February. Many were malnourished and a few had to be euthanized because they were living in such poor conditions.

The Humane Society of North Texas was awarded custody of them and has been nursing them back to health at its ranch in Joshua.

"We don't want them to be a trophy,” said Cassie Lackey with the Humane Society of North Texas. “And we don't want them to go to slaughter."

The animals are described as longhorns and longhorn cross breeds – 20 bulls, 13 steers, 63 heifers, 87 cows and 29 calves.

People who adopt the longhorns will have to agree to keep them for life.

“They are iconic,” Lackey said. “They are Texas Longhorns — the epitome of true Texas spirit."

The humane society says the longhorns and longhorn cross cattle hadn't been adequately cared for. And as the weather got hotter, there was little grass or water to find on their own.

Heather Hardin and her kids hope to adopt a couple longhorns to roam on their 10 acres.

"I'm glad they are getting the nutrition they need seem to be very happy out here,” she said. “We are happy to apply for some of these and get them onto our property.”

Adoption fees will be close to market value to discourage the new owners from selling the cattle for a profit or slaughter.

The humane society say they are getting a lot of interest in the longhorn adoptions. Everyone will be vetted to insure they have adequate land.

Anyone who adopts them must agree they will not be sold or slaughtered. For more information, visit hsnt.org/horses-and-livestock/.