The Alliance MLA who has introduced a Bill to ban hunting wild mammals with dogs in Northern Ireland said: “I'm horrified by the video being shared on social media, showing a much-loved family cat being torn apart by dogs during a hunt. My thoughts are with the family who has been through the trauma of losing their family pet in such a brutal and distressing way. This is something no family should have to experience.
“We know hunts kill family pets regularly. This latest incident is yet another example of why we urgently need a ban on hunting with dogs in Northern Ireland.
“I would urge those opposed to it to look at the evidence, listen to the public, and recognise that a ban on hunting wild mammals with dogs is long overdue.
The USPCA has also commented on the footage:
“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 keptunder control at all times. It also reaffirms our view that a ban on hunting with dogs is urgently needed to protect animals.”
“This harrowing case must be a turning point. The Assembly must now act to introduce a comprehensive ban on hunting wild mammals with dogs in Northern Ireland."