PAYETTE — Police located four dead horses and empty water troughs Saturday following an animal neglect complaint, according to the Payette County Sheriff’s Office.

The sheriff’s office received a complaint Saturday night reporting that there were several dead horses in a pasture in the area of Hurd Lane in Payette and noted that water troughs in the pasture were empty. Hurd Lane is south of Northeast 10th Avenue in Payette.

Sheriff’s deputies investigated the scene and confirmed there were empty water troughs and four dead horses on the pasture. Statements from the owner and neighbors were taken.

“Many of our employees own animals themselves and are as heartbroken by this as much as our community is,” the sheriff’s office shared in a Facebook post. “We appreciate the community’s concerns and would like to remind all animals owners that the heat is reaching triple digits. Animals need a consistent water source and can overheat very quickly. Please ensure you are taking care of your furry family members.”

The case is now being investigated by the Payette City Police Department and the Payette City prosecutor, as it was determined the case occurred within city limits.

For those that notice signs of animal neglect in Payette, call Payette County Dispatch at 208-642-6006 ext. 1175.