The Humane Society of the United States is offering a reward of up to $2,500 for information leading to the identification, arrest, and conviction of the person or people responsible for abandoning five horses on a logging road in rural Pierce County on Nov. 12.

Terry Cairns found five emaciated horses deep in the forest outside of Elbe, Wash. last week, local news reports indicate. The horses might have been stranded for up to two weeks. One horse was euthanized on site due to extreme emaciation. Two of the surviving horses are estimated to be at least 15 years old, and another is suspected to be pregnant.

Abandoning animals in Washington state is a misdemeanor and is punishable by up to 90 days in jail and/or a $1,000 fine.

"Abandoning a horse is not only irresponsible, but it is also against the law," said Dan Paul, Washington state director for The HSUS. "Struggling horse owners do not need to turn to abandonment to solve their problems. Rescue groups, online adoption programs, lease arrangements, and even humane euthanasia are all responsible alternatives to horse abandonment