WILLIAMSON COUNTY, Texas — After what authorities describe as a "boneyard" of cattle was discovered in Williamson County, the sheriff says watching out for livestock herds is a job that often goes unnoticed.
"It's just kind of grown on me over the years," said Deputy Joe Worsham, who has handled livestock since he was 9-years-old.
Caring for animals started at a young age for Deputy Johnathan Kidwell too.
"Having my kids grow up in the field of livestock, you learn to enjoy that lifestyle and care for animals," says Deputy Kidwell.
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They are like cowboys, not just wearing a cowboy hat but also sporting a badge.
"We're heavily involved in the recovery of livestock," Deputy Worsham said.
The two oftentimes are out in the heat serving and protecting those without a voice.
"Pastures are drying up and stock tanks are drying up," Deputy Kidwell explained.
He says cattle are getting out of fences to get greener grass, and they normally get calls because cattle don't look like they should.
One of those recent calls came from a ranch along the 19000 block of Highway 29 near Liberty Hill. Officials said they found a boneyard with cattle remains and seized more than 80 other animals.
"However the results turn out for that individual that owns the livestock, we'll know that we've done our best for that animal," Worsham explained.
They are hoping to rescue as many animals before they fall victim to negligence.
"Right now, someone else gets to feed them and take care of them," Worsham said. "I get the enjoyment of being involved in livestock but not take care of them on a personal basis."
"Oftentimes we joke that we'd rather deal with the livestock then normal people other deputies deal with on a day-to-day basis," Kidwell added.