3 days ago
'A scene of trauma and danger' - Horse found dead at north Dublin park
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An animal welfare charity has described a "scene of trauma and danger" after a horse was found dead at a north Dublin park this morning.
The incident happened in Tolka Valley Park, Finglas where the horse died after its neck got caught in a fence. Following the horrific event, My Lovely Horse Rescue has hit out at a "system in collapse" and renewed their calls for a Garda-led Animal Welfare Unit and 24/7 emergency cover.
A spokesperson for My Lovely Horse rescue said: "On Bank Holiday Saturday morning, a grim scene unfolded in Tolka Park, Finglas. A man walking his dog stopped in disbelief.
"Against a fence lay a beautiful dapple-grey horse — lifeless, its body twisted and caught, suggesting a desperate struggle before its neck was broken. Nearby, other horses — including a young foal — stood silently by."
(Image: My Lovely Horse Rescue)
My Lovely Horse Rescue said multiple agencies including Dublin City Council, Fingal County Council and An Garda Siochana were contacted about the deceased horse. The charity said: "Meanwhile, local children passed on their way to GAA matches — confronted with a sight no child should ever have to see. A public park became a scene of trauma — and danger.
"The unmanaged presence of horses in urban spaces is a public safety risk. Parks, roads, and playgrounds are no place for vulnerable, abandoned animals — or for the public to face unnecessary risk."
My Lovely Horse Rescue said they are "determined to speak for those who have no voice". They added: "Ireland's animal welfare system is broken — and without urgent reform, both animals and the public remain at risk."
Dublin Live has contacted Dublin City Council, Fingal County Council and An Garda Siochana for comment.
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