Gardaí investigating video of Cork incident where dog 'howled and cried in pure distress'

Gardaí in Cork are investigating an incident involving the treatment of a dog in Cork city, after the incident was recorded by a member of the public last week.

A video clip posted by the animal welfare group, My Lovely Horse, shows a dog attached to a leash alongside a car in a car wash. The clip shows a man turning a hose on the animal, who tries to move away from the jet of water.

My Lovely Horse posted the 17-second video clip on their social media page on Wednesday and it has attracted hundreds of comments from members of the public.

“This poor dog howled and cried in pure distress as he was washed in a drive through car wash,” My Lovely Horse said on the post.

The welfare group also raised concerns about the potential harm to the dog from chemicals used in cleaning. 

Investigation

 The incident was reported to gardaí in Cork city.

A spokesperson for An Garda Síochána said they are aware of reports of an incident involving a dog which occurred in the Bishopstown area of Cork on April 7.

“An Garda Síochána is making enquiries in relation to this incident and is asking anyone who witnessed this incident to please contact local Gardaí,” the spokesperson said.

My Lovely Horse spokesperson Kelly Mellerick said they are hoping for a prosecution.

“This dog would certainly need to see a vet as soon as possible,” said Ms Mellerick. 

“You can imagine the power of a pressure hose on a soft delicate little body. 

"The damage it could have done, and the pain the dog could be in.“ 

 My Lovely Horse receives multiple reports of animal cruelty every day to their web page. The incidents are recorded anywhere in Ireland and their location is often difficult to establish, she said.

“If you can safely, and I absolutely emphasise safely, take a video of what’s going on," Ms Mellerick said. 

"It just helps us on the ground and then we can also liaise better with the authorities, the Gardaí, the Department of Agriculture, and the ISPCA, who are the authorised officers under the law to deal with it."

Ms Mellerick also paid tribute to Cork Gardaí and the ISPCA Inspector in Cork, Caroline Faherty, for their assistance.