Gardaí probe 'horse-napping' from Dublin shelter

Gardaí are investigating a "horse-napping" from an animal shelter in Dublin.

Two ponies and a small donkey were stolen overnight from the DSCPA compound in Rathfarnam.

The thieves used wire-cutting equipment and saws to break in, and would have needed a horsebox to escape.

Staff are said to be heartbroken by the theft.

"Staff are absolutely heartbroken to have discovered that these three equine have been stolen," said DSPCE spokesperson Orla Aungier.

"The stolen animals are Napoleon, a three-year-old black and white falabella stallion; Kerry, a white and brown gelded yearling who is a Kerry bog pony, and Hailey, a female donkey that is approximately five years old. Her nine-month old foal is missing her and it is all very upsetting."

Dublin SPCA are calling for anyone who may have seen a horsebox on the road outside the sanctuary to contact them or Gardai in Rathfarnham.