WFAA-TV

Workers say at least half the cattle and donkeys at a Henderson County farm showed signs of starvation.

SPCA workers rescued 31 animals they said were left to starve with only one bale of hay and no water at a Henderson County farm near Athens.

Cows, donkeys and a miniature horse were among the animals picked up by rescuers. The animals are now being examined by a veterinarian.

Workers say at least half the cattle and donkeys showed signs of starvation, and there was no grazing land on the 17-acre property.

A specialized vet is examining the miniature horse, which is lame and cannot move on its own.

The Henderson County Sheriff Department is investigating the owner.

"It takes a lot to get cattle in this shape, a lot of neglect," said Ann Barnes, SPCA of Texas. "So, we usually don't come across these cases very often."

The SPCA will care for the animals in Collin County until a judge determines their custody and approves adoption.

The hearing is set for October 19.