Concerns have been raised regarding potential dog poisoning incidents at a Co Tyrone forest following the deaths of three dogs.
SDLP Torrent Councillor Malachy Quinn has issued a warning to pet owners following reports that three dogs had died after eating "cocktail sausges dipped in anti-freezee" that had been found at Drumcraine Forest, just outside Stewartstown.
He said that dog owners have contacted him and confirmed that their dogs have died from poisoning.
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It is understood that the incidents have taken place over the last three weeks.
The councillor has contacted Mid-Ulster District Council Environmental Health in order to carry out an investigation into the incidents.
Councillor Quinn said: "I am absolutely disgusted to hear that someone has apparently set out to harm animals. These individuals have targeted a local forest park, somewhere they know that is used quite regularly by dog owners, and sought to cause the maximum damage that they can. This has resulted in the heartbreaking death of at least three dogs and there is anger in the community about this. I urge anyone with information to come forward.
"Four years ago we launched the SDLP campaign for an Animal Cruelty Register across the UK and Ireland and for harsher sentences for those convicted of harming animals. Those behind this incident need to caught and I would urge anyone walking their dogs in Drumcraine or anywhere local to please be vigilant and report anything suspicious."
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