I'm not sure, I think not turning them out in a lot that is basically dry ( no grass ) and not coming for over a week to check on them is sign # 1, you knew what kind of care they received before entering. Boo!

I've realized that people who "pasture care" their horse, has this notion they never need to come take care or visit them.  There are a lot of pasture care horses, and its rare you see the people -- some more than others.