Man faces charges after horses found 'extremely emaciated' in Volusia County

The Volusia County Sheriff's Office said a man was arrested on animal cruelty charges.

According to deputies, four horses total were neglected. The horses were found in bad conditions on July 8 at a Seville home.

Two mares were "extremely emaciated" and their bones were visible beneath their skin, the sheriff's office said. They also had infections and were dehydrated.

The homeowner claimed he'd "fallen on hard times and was unable to care for the horses," Volusia County deputies said.

Investigators believe all four of the horses' conditions had deteriorated over months or years.

"All four suffered from malnutrition and lack of medical care, including eye, dental and hoof care," the Volusia County Sheriff's Office wrote on Facebook.

The horses were removed from the home and taken to the veterinarian. On July 22, one of them was euthanized after their condition got worse.

One mare is also in critical condition but continues to improve, according to the Volusia County Sheriff's Office.

Deputies said 65-year-old Wayne Prevatt, the former owner of the horses, was arrested on the charges of cruelty to animals, unlawful confinement and abandoning animals.

Prevatt was released from jail after posting bond.