Dead horse treated the same as rubbish that surrounds it in muddy Limerick field

A HORSE being left to slowly die with no food, water or shelter is a “daily occurrence in Limerick city”, said the manager of Limerick Animal Welfare’s sanctuary in Kilfinane.

Marie O’Connor told Limerick Live about one such cruelty case last Sunday.

She said the mare was put in behind railings on rubbish-filled land at St Munchin’s Street, St Mary’s Park in the city

“There was no food or water or shelter. The mare had collapsed and Limerick Welfare Charity were called by concerned neighbours,” said Ms O’Connor.

Limerick Animal Welfare immediately called a vet in Caherconlish who “responded very quickly”.  

“Sadly it was too late for the mare. The vet diagnosed lockjaw and a huge infection,” said Ms O’Connor.

Lockjaw or equine tetanus is caused by bacteria gaining entry into a horse’s body through wounds or injuries. Spasms of head muscles cause difficulty in grasping and  chewing food hence the name lockjaw.

Ms O’Connor said the mare was euthanised by the vet to end its agony and suffering.  She said the horse wasn’t microchipped - which is the law - so there is no accountability.  

“This is a daily occurrence in Limerick city and county and charities are powerless to protect these horses,” said Ms O’Connor.

The animal charity shared the story on its Facebook page. It garnered over 250 comments with people furious at the treatment of the mare by its owners.

“Don't know if I'm more heartbroken about the little horse passing away or so totally furious about the way the little innocent was left to die.   

“At least she was treated with kindness before she left this world,” wrote one person.

Another said: “That's horrendous. These owners should be prosecuted and jailed.”