A harrowing discovery of a severely emaciated horse in Mathiatis has ignited a swift and decisive animal welfare intervention, culminating in the animal’s rescue and a police investigation into alleged neglect. The distressing condition of the mare, described by witnesses as alarmingly underweight and dehydrated, prompted immediate action from the Ecologists Party's Animal Action Group, who collaborated with local law enforcement and community members to ensure the animal’s safety.
The ordeal began to unfold on Sunday when a social media post depicting the horse’s critical state circulated widely, eliciting widespread public outrage. Appalled by the images, Anthi Mouzouri, coordinator for the Animal Action Group, promptly alerted the local police station. A subsequent site visit by members of the Animal Action Group confirmed the dire circumstances, revealing a creature in an advanced state of malnutrition. Angelina Mahtaney, an experienced equestrian and owner of a horse sourcing company who was present at the scene, expressed profound shock, stating, "She is skin and bones. It looks like she hasn’t drunk proper water in weeks." Mahtaney further emphasised the severity of the neglect, adding, "This is not what a horse should look like at all."
The rescue operation, a testament to collaborative community spirit, was executed with precision. On Monday, the horse was carefully transported from the stable in Mathiatis to a secure location in Lythrodontas village. This delicate process was facilitated by a police escort, underscoring the gravity of the situation, and was overseen by a prominent community leader, signifying the collective commitment to animal welfare. The successful relocation was a crucial first step, enabling the animal to receive the immediate attention it desperately required.
The rescued mare is now slated for a comprehensive veterinary examination, which will determine the full extent of her health issues and guide her subsequent treatment plan. It is understood that she will receive necessary medication and dedicated care to aid her recovery. Simultaneously, the Cyprus police are actively pursuing an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the horse's condition, operating under existing animal welfare legislation. This inquiry aims to ascertain responsibility for the alleged neglect and to prevent future occurrences of such abuse.
The incident has cast a spotlight on the persistent challenges of animal welfare and the potent role that social media platforms can play in galvanising public awareness and driving swift action. The collective effort, involving not only the Animal Action Group and police but also individuals whose horses are housed at the same facility, highlights the importance of a united front in addressing animal cruelty. As the investigation progresses and the mare embarks on her path to rehabilitation, the case serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing need for vigilance and robust enforcement of animal protection laws across the island. The community's rapid response offers a glimmer of hope, demonstrating that when citizens and authorities work in concert, meaningful change for vulnerable creatures can be achieved.