FRANKTOWN, Colo. — In June, 200 abused horses were rescued from a ranch in Houston. The Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals called the Dumb Friends League Harmony Equine Center in Franktown for help.

First order of the day is for veterinarian Dr. Steven Cribley to examine each and every horse.

“We’re basically looking for any clinical signs of disease or abnormalities that we might need to deal with, putting them back in a healthy state,” he said.

When the horses were rescued in June, they were starved, suffered from open wounds and had hoof problems. Nine weeks later, they’re showing signs of vast improvement.

“Overall as a group they’re not in serious trouble,” Cribley said.

Some of the horses have had little to no human contact, which made examination and treatment a challenge.

“We haven’t done complete exams on these yet at all because of the fact they have not been handled,” Cribley said.

The rehabilitation could take up to six months or longer and will cost around $200,000. The ultimate goal is to find good homes for these good horses.