A SUSPECTED severed horse leg discovered in a field in Limerick is prompting urgent calls for a multi-agency response to animal cruelty.
The My Lovely Horse Animal Rescue said the discovery was reported by a concerned member of the public who spotted the remains in a field where horses are kept regularly in the Dooradoyle/Rosbrien area.
In a statement, the organisation said that “this is not just another incident. It is a stark reminder of the animal welfare crisis unfolding across Ireland.”
“The fact that such a distressing sight could be found in a busy area opposite ongoing works and visible to passers-by should concern every one of us,” the group said.
The group also highlighted that its members continue to witness “neglect, abandonment, cruelty, and indifference. Horses left to starve. Animals dumped and discarded. Welfare concerns ignored until it is too late.”
“The discovery of what appears to be a severed horse leg is a shocking symbol of a system that is failing some of the most vulnerable animals in our society.”
My Lovely Horse Animal Rescue co-founder Martina Kenny further added: “How many more animals must suffer before enough is enough? Every week we are confronted with shocking cases of neglect, abandonment, and cruelty, yet the problem continues to escalate. The discovery of what appears to be a severed horse leg in a field where horses are present is deeply disturbing and raises serious questions that require urgent answers.”
“We appreciate the work being carried out by the Department of Agriculture, Food, and the Marine, but animals do not suffer only during office hours. Cruelty does not stop at 5pm on a Friday. We need a properly resourced multi-agency response involving DAFM, An Garda SÃochána, local authorities, and animal welfare organisations working together under a zero-tolerance approach to animal cruelty.”
“Animal welfare must become a national priority. Animals cannot speak for themselves. We must be their voice and we must ensure that those responsible for abuse, neglect and suffering are held fully accountable.”
If you witness animal cruelty, neglect, or welfare concerns, it can be reported to the Animal Welfare Helpline on 01 607 2379 or via email at [email protected]. All reports are made in confidence.