Investigation Underway After Multiple Horse Remains Found at Pure Gold Stables in Salem

Animal Welfare

Nov 10

A disturbing discovery in Salem Township, Ohio has left the community shocked and heartbroken. According to a report by 21 News, multiple deceased horses were found at Pure Gold Stables in Columbiana County, prompting an active investigation by the Columbiana County Sheriff’s Office and the Columbiana County Humane Society.

What Happened

The remains were discovered by Taylor Robb, a horse trainer who was preparing to lease the property to host shows, clinics, and training programs. Upon visiting the stable, Robb found the skeletal remains of several horses inside the stalls.

Photos obtained by 21 News were reportedly too graphic to share, showing mostly skin and bones left behind. In one stall, the wood had been severely chewed, suggesting prolonged distress before death.

Shannon Gates, Vice President of the Columbiana County Humane Society, confirmed that four horses were found deceased on the property. Veterinarians are currently assisting the humane society in determining how long the horses had been there.

The property’s owner, Heather Birkmire, told reporters she was unaware of the deaths and claimed that Robb had been taking care of the horses for the previous two weeks under an informal agreement. However, early reports suggest that the horses may have been deceased for months, raising serious questions about oversight and responsibility.

Because the case is an open investigation, officials have not released additional details.

A Larger Issue: Oversight and Accountability in Equine Care

This tragic case highlights the urgent need for stronger animal welfare enforcement and clearer accountability for equine care in Ohio.

While Ohio law (Ohio Revised Code § 959.13) prohibits cruelty and neglect of companion and farm animals, cases like this reveal ongoing gaps in monitoring and enforcement—especially when horses are kept on private or leased properties without regular welfare checks.

Too often, by the time law enforcement or humane officers are alerted, it’s already too late to prevent suffering.

What You Can Do

Ohio Animal Advocates encourages residents to stay vigilant and report suspected neglect or cruelty to local humane societies, law enforcement, or the Ohio Department of Agriculture’s Animal Health Division.

If you suspect neglect:

Document what you observe (photos, dates, locations).
Do not trespass or confront owners directly.
Contact your local humane society or county sheriff’s office immediately.
You can also report anonymously through the Ohio SPCA or Humane Society of the United States.

Take Action for Ohio’s Horses

Every horse deserves safety, dignity, and compassion. The tragedy in Salem is a painful reminder of what happens when oversight fails. You can help ensure that no animal endures this kind of suffering again.

Ban Dangerous Double-Deck Trailers for Horse Transportation. Support federal legislation to end the use of unsafe double-deck trailers that cause serious injuries and deaths during transport.
Protect Horses from Meat Slaughter. Urge Congress to pass the SAFE Act to permanently ban horse slaughter and the export of horses for slaughter abroad.
Want to know how laws, transport, and care standards impact horses across our state? Visit our Equines page for tools, resources, and advocacy opportunities.
Donate now through the end of the year to have your gift TRIPLED—up to $22,500! Your support fuels investigations, strengthens humane law enforcement, and advances OAA’s fight to protect horses and all Ohio animals.