Police said the 2 dogs – comprehended to be German shepherds – had actually been weighted down prior to being taken into water near Aughnacloy’s Carricklongfield Road.
On Sunday early morning, the Ulster Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (USPCA) said a dumbbell had actually been utilized to avoid the dogs leaving from the lake.
Announcing the charity’s choice to set up a £500 benefit, USPCA president Nora Smith said: “This is a horrific sickening case of animal cruelty, and we are appalled to see such barbaric abuse. We cannot comprehend the motives of anyone who can carry out such brutal attacks against vulnerable animals like this.”
Ms Smith included: “Unfortunately, this is a stark reminder of the many challenges we are facing with regards to animal welfare in Northern Ireland. We are encouraging anyone with information that may assist the PSNI in their investigation to contact them on the 101 number.”
On Saturday, Inspector Hughes of the PSNI said post mortem evaluations will be performed.
“Officers received a report that the dogs were found weighted down in the water shortly after 7pm on Friday, 4 August.
“The dogs were removed from the lake and have been taken to a vet where a post-mortem will be carried out in due course. We are engaging with the local dog warden.”
Insp Hughes included: “Our enquiries are underway and anyone who noticed anything suspicious is asked to contact police on 101, quoting reference number 1562 of 04/08/23.”
Information can likewise be sent online utilizing the non-emergency reporting form through www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/
Crimestoppers can likewise be called anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org/
