The Scottish SPCA is appealing for information following a suspected dog attack on four horses in Lanark.
Scotland’s animal welfare charity was alerted to the incidents after a member of the public called to report that they had found four of their animals with serious injuries.
The horses were injured at the Scottish Equi Complex in Lanarkmoor Country Park on or around last Sunday, September 5.
Three of the animals have serious injuries but are expected to make a full recovery.
However, one of the horses is in a critical condition after sustaining a severe wound to its leg.
SSPCA Inspector Heather Lawson told Lanarkshire Live: "We’re appealing to members of the public to come forward if they have any information about this incident.
"Four of the horses in the field sustained serious injuries and other horses were distressed and agitated, suggesting they had also been chased.
"On examination by a vet the horses were found to have bite and puncture wounds consistent with an attack by an animal, most likely a dog or multiple dogs.
"The incident is thought to have occurred roughly between 6pm on the evening of Saturday, September 4 and 8am the following morning.
"We know that there was an event taking place in the area and people were camping and using the facilities so we hope someone has witnessed or heard something.
"Being attacked or chased by a dog will have led to these horses suffering considerable amounts of pain and fear.
"We would remind dog owners that it is an offence for your dog to be out of control in any public or private place.
"We would urge people to ensure their dogs are kept on a lead around horses at all times and that they make sure they have sight of their dog if it is off lead as a dog’s natural instinct is to chase."
Anyone with any information on what happened to these horses is urged to call the animal helpline on 03000 999 999 where strict confidence is maintained.