A probe has been launched after four horses were brutally attacked by dogs at a Scots stable.
Shocking pictures released by the Scottish SPCA show the aftermath of the vicious incident at the Scottish Equi Complex in Lanarkmoor Country Park, Lanarkshire.
A horrified horse owner had phoned charity bosses after discovering the deep, bloody cuts on their animals on Sunday.
One of the animals is in a critical condition after sustaining massive wounds to its legs while the three others have serious injuries.
The complex serves as a 'horse hotel' and is located on the former Lanark racecourse.
Inspector Heather Lawson, of the SSPCA, said the wounds were likely to have come from dogs and that other horses that were not hurt appeared to have been chased.
She said: “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 4 September and 8am on the morning of Sunday 5 September.
“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."
She added: “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 can call our animal helpline on 03000 999 999 in the strictest confidence.”
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