Two Cobb County horses were found so starved that investigators say they had resorted to eating rocks just to stay alive. Now identified by rescue staff as Sonny and Bullseye, the pair are under veterinary care at a volunteer-run barn while authorities try to track down their owner, Theresa Robinson.
Investigation And Charges
Cobb County Animal Services has issued a warrant for Robinson after the horses were seized and moved into protective custody. According to FOX 5 Atlanta, Director Steve Hammond said the department spent months attempting to work with the owner before stepping in to remove the animals. Investigators describe the horses' condition as life-threatening and are asking anyone who knows where Robinson is to contact authorities.
Condition Of The Horses And Rescue Care
Rescue staff and detectives told WSB-TV that Sonny's ribs and hip bones were clearly visible and Bullseye had lost all subcutaneous fat. Both horses arrived dehydrated, with hooves that were overgrown and splintered and teeth worn down from chewing rocks in search of anything edible. Barn managers say they are feeding the pair several times a day, providing breathing treatments, and keeping watch around the clock as the animals slowly put weight back on.
What It Means When Horses Eat Rocks
Veterinary experts describe the rock-eating behavior as geophagia, a type of pica where animals ingest materials that are not food. It can be a sign of severe hunger, mineral deficiencies, or limited access to forage. Equine nutrition specialists at Mad Barn and the American Quarter Horse Association note that eating soil or rocks can lead to sand colic, intestinal impaction, and rapid dental wear, all of which can make recovery even harder for already malnourished horses.
What Is Next And How To Help
Investigators say the case remains open and the warrant for Robinson is still active, and they are urging anyone with tips to contact law enforcement. The rescue caring for Sonny and Bullseye says it relies heavily on volunteers and donations because both horses face a long road of veterinary treatment. WSB-TV reports that staff and volunteers have already spent months nursing the pair back toward health. The barn has posted appeals for monetary donations and supplies to cover specialized feed and medical care during their recovery.
Legal Notes
Georgia law defines cruelty to animals under O.C.G.A. § 16-12-4. The statute covers causing physical pain to animals or failing to provide basic living conditions, and it carries misdemeanor penalties with tougher consequences for repeat or aggravated offenses. Prosecutors in Cobb County are expected to review the evidence and consult with veterinary experts as they decide what charges to pursue in the case.
