Gardaí investigating after horses are attacked with axe in Wicklow

Warning: This post contains graphic images that some people may find upsetting.

GARDAÍ ARE INVESTIGATING two recent attacks on horses in Co Wicklow.

In two separate incidents, a number of horses were left with wounds after they were attacked with what is believed to be an axe or a weapon of a similar nature.

The first incident occurred in the early hours of Saturday, 16 July, when a horse was left with horrific injuries including a hole in its back.

A few days later, another horse was attacked in the same area in a similar fashion.

Although it is not known if the incidents are related, gardaí believe they could be.

Sarah Shepperd, who owns the horse that was attacked on 16 July, said she was left shocked and saddened by the incident.

It’s just so scary. You know, we all read about these things but never in a million year did I ever think it would happen to me or anyone else around here.

“It is such a beautiful, peaceful area but you don’t actually know what goes on around you at night.

“I’m at the stage now where I don’t feel safe walking out to the field. If you can do that to a horse I couldn’t imagine what they could do to a person.”

It is understood that the horses are expected to live but their owners will now face significant veterinary bills.

Gardaí in Ashford are investigating the circumstances surrounding the two attacks and have appealed for anyone with information to contact them on 04 04 49220.

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