A young horse nicknamed ‘Cookie’ was found in distress in a muddy field near Cookstown Road, Dungannon, prompting a community rescue effort on March 11. Despite veterinary intervention, the horse had to be euthanised due to severe suffering. Subsequent investigations uncovered the carcasses of three other horses in the same field, all in poor condition and undernourished, highlighting severe neglect and cruelty.

Animal welfare charities, including My Lovely Horse Rescue and the USPCA, have condemned the neglect and are calling for a thorough investigation and accountability for those responsible. The PSNI and Animal Welfare officers are involved, with Mid Ulster Council confirming an ongoing inquiry. The public is urged to provide any information to aid the investigation into this heartbreaking case of animal abuse.