Judge makes decision in case of Waller County 34 horses

Hempstead, TX – Precinct 1 Justice of the Peace Judge Charles Karisch read the final decision in the civil matter for the 34 horses that were seized last year on July 10, 2015 due to neglect. The horses were seized from a property owned by Dr. Kathy Digilio, DVM in response to complaints by neighbors. The Waller County Sheriff’s Department requested the assistance of True Blue Animal Rescue with the seizure. The horses were seized and placed at caring foster homes through True Blue Animal Rescue & have remained in their care for almost 14 months while awaiting an outcome. All the horses have received much needed veterinary care, food, rehabilitation, and love.

Judge Karisch ordered that before any horses are released, Dr. Digilio pay True Blue Animal Rescue $30,000 for the care her horses have received by veterinarians and foster homes, no longer make appeals in the civil matter for the 34 horses. Dr. Ben Buchanan with Brazos Valley Equine Hospital is to inspect the property and make sure it is clear of debris, parasites, salmonella, and livable conditions for horses. True Blue Animal Rescue can have a veterinary of their choice go the same day as Dr. Buchanan to do an inspection as well. Dr. Digilio was ordered not to breed or acquire any more horses than the 7 she will be allowed to have back. She has free choice as to the 7 she wishes to pick from out of the 34. She will be regularly evaluated & checked on for the living conditions of the horses. If at any time they are not cared for and she does not abide by the judge’s orders the horses will be seized again.