Two loose dogs entered private property and violently attacked a miniature horse in the early hours of Sunday morning.
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Henry is lucky to be alive after the dogs entered the secured property at Travellers Rest and cornered the 20-year-old miniature horse.
Owners Christine and Michael Shepherd said they heard barking, so they decided to go outside and check on things only to discover “two very large dogs had pinned Henry into the corner”.
Henry sustained significant injuries to his face.
An after hours vet spent more than three hours trying to repair the damage.
He required four injections during treatment and will need to be given one injection a day for a week.
The ordeal was extremely distressing for Mrs Shepherd and her family.
Police were called to the Shepherd’s residence but were unable to tame the dogs.
Both dogs were destroyed.
Mrs Shepherd said their other miniature horse, 19-year-old, Jack escaped to the back of the property, preventing him from being injured.
Neighbours told Mr Shepherd some of their goats and sheep were killed during an attack overnight but it is not known whether the same dogs were responsible.
Meander Valley mayor Craig Perkins said dog owners need to understand the responsibilities around ownership and making sure they are contained within their properties.
Tasmania Police was contacted for comment.
