Gardai in the city centre have rescued a badly malnourished horse who had been used for sulky riding in the capital.
The poor animal was in a bad way when it was seized by gardai in the north inner city on Saturday, with open sores on its joints and welts across its body.
The horse's owner is likely to face prosecution, with gardai saying that once its harness had been removed, "the severity of the cruelty was evident".
They said on their Facebook page: "Gardaí in Bridewell, Dublin seized this sulky horse on Saturday afternoon for immediate veterinary attention.
"When the harness was removed, the severity of the cruelty was evident. The owner will be prosecuted for animal neglect.
"Please report any incidents of sulky riding to Gardaí to ensure horses are being treated with respect."
People were quick to praise gardai for their quick-thinking - and to blast the savage cruelty of sulky riding.
Sharon Conway wrote: "Well done to all involved in saving this horse from a horrible life, or worse, death. Maybe now he will have a chance.
Denise O Maolagain added: "I'm so angry looking at this. The poor horse. I can't understand how anyone can be this cruel."
