Police have launched an investigation into the harrowing circumstances surrounding the death of a Shetland pony in West Lothian.
Officers were called to the scene in Broxburn this morning, in a field behind Roman Camp Cottages.
The much-loved family pet, called Pepper, was found dead at around 10am according to reports on social media.
The animal had suffered a number of stab wounds and was said to still be bleeding when a neighbour discovered him.
It is believed the incident took place sometime between Sunday evening at 9pm and 11am on Monday morning.
A Police Scotland spokeswoman said: "Around 11 am on Monday, 8 June 2020, a Shetland pony was found dead in a field behind Roman Camp Cottages, Broxburn.
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"The pony had been stabbed and this is believed to have occurred between 9pm on Sunday, 7 June, 2020 and 11 am on Monday, 8 June, 2020.
"Enquiries are ongoing to establish the full circumstances."
A family friend said: "The police have cordoned off the scene and are taking this crime seriously. I worry about the psychology of someone who could carry out such an attack."
The police are also appealing for information in relation to another case in West Lothian after a woman was assaulted when two man attempted to steal her dog on Sunday.
The 52-year-old woman was walking her German Shepherd in Livingston at around 8pm when the incident took place.
