The USPCA is deeply disturbed by footage on social media that indicates a family pet cat has been "torn apart" by a pack of uncontrolled dogs at a property in Northern Ireland.
Our thoughts are with the family affected by this needless and distressing loss of a much-loved companion animal.
Incidents involving a pack of uncontrolled and unleashed dogs can have a devastating impact on wildlife, domestic animals and the wider community. In this case, it appears a family has lost a beloved pet in a sudden and frightening circumstance, not only for the cat but for those who observed it. Also concerning is what appears to be an attempt, by someone dressed in hunting attire, to remove the remains of the dead animal. This is not an isolated issue, and it underlines the importance of responsible ownership and the legal requirement for dogs in Northern Ireland to be kept under control at all times. It also reaffirms our view that a ban on hunting with dogs is urgently needed to protect animals.
No animal should be terrorised or killed on private property by uncontrolled, unleashed dogs, and no family should have to endure the trauma of losing a pet in this way.
The USPCA remains committed to working in partnership with responsible owners, the PSNI and local councils to ensure the safety of domestic pets and their families as well as all other animals.
We urge anyone who was witness to this horrific event to contact the PSNI on 101 or via Crimestoppers and also to report to the Local council Animal welfare team.
