Rise in number of stray horses euthanised

Far more stray horses were put down in Cork in 2014 compared to previous years as their owners refused to collect them from pounds.

Figures released by Cork County Council show that 158 horses were euthanised last year, compared to 136 in 2013. Council impounded 227 horses in 2003, while it took in a further 174 last year.

But while 78 owners reclaimed their animals in 2013, just 16 turned up to get them last year.