BANGOR (AP) — A Maine agriculture official says financial pressures and the high price of hay are forcing many horse owners to give up their animals.

State Animal Welfare Director Norma Worley says that by the end of August, 50 horses were voluntarily surrendered to the state. That’s compared to the 32 horses that were removed all last year.

Worley told the Bangor Daily News that people are struggling to put food on their table and can no longer afford to feed a horse.

Hay was $1 per bale two years ago, but following this year’s rainy weather it’s now $4 to $6 per bale. Feed grain’s risen from $8.50 for a 50-pound bag to $15.