There have been yet more devastating discoveries made following the heart-breaking euthanasia of a young horse found suffering in a Dungannon field, and animal welfare charities are now vehemently backing an investigation into their suffering.
On the evening of March 11, a large-scale community effort was prompted after a concerned member of the public shared an image of a very young horse laying on its side, in clear distress on social media.
The individual called for immediate assistance from anyone in the vicinity of Cookstown Road to help find the animal and bring medical support. The plea gained an overwhelming response from the public.
Several local people gathered on site, provided blankets to keep the yearling warm and a vet was called to attend.
The animal – affectionately nicknamed ‘Cookie’ by those in attendance – was said to be taking intermittent seizures and when the vet attended, was faced with no alternative but to end its suffering.
Upon investigation of the field – albeit under the cloak of darkness – a police officer is said to have found a second carcass close by.
At that time, it was believed to be the foal’s mother. However, in the light of day My Lovely Horse Rescue – an Irish equine welfare charity – has now confirmed that two other horses were also found dead in the same field.
‘Cookie’ during the rescue operation that sadly failed
Their condition is deplorable. One of the deceased was in a clear state of decomposition and all appeared undernourished.
A source who had been on the scene that evening also told this publication the field they were found in was “mud up to your knees”.
Speaking to Armagh I, one concerned member of the public said: “Such barbaric cruelty and unnecessary abuse. Absolutely heart-breaking.
“This has got to end. A full investigation needs to happen and these disgusting animal abusers given prison sentences.”
Several animal welfare charities – including My Lovely Horse Rescue – are now backing a full and thorough investigation into the matter.
CEO of Newry-based animal welfare charity USPCA, Heather Weir said: “We are deeply saddened by reports that two young horses have died in Dungannon, with one animal sadly having to be euthanised at the scene after much distress.
“Cases like this highlight the devastating consequences when animals are not given the basic care and compassion they deserve. No animal should have to suffer in this way.
“These horses should have been regularly monitored, with access to shelter and veterinary care when needed. Animals are completely dependent on the people responsible for their care. Anyone who neglects that duty must be held accountable and brought to justice.
“We understand that PSNI and Animal Welfare officers attended the scene, and we fully support a swift and thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding this incident. We call for anyone with information to report it to the PSNI.”
Following reports of the incident Mid Ulster Council confirmed an investigation is underway.
Information can be provided to the PSNI via their non-emergency helpline on 101 or reported online here.
