Cat dies after being shot with air rifle
STAFF at a veterinary practice felt a “shockwave of anger” after learning that an injured cat had been shot with an air rifle.
Two-year-old Skye was left paralysed when the bullet severed her spinal cord and tragically had to be put down.
Skye was found in a neighbour’s garden, having lost the use of her back legs and tail and fallen off a wall.
She was taken to Rufford Veterinary Group on Wennington Road and a small circular wound was found on her back.
An X-ray was carried out and made clear that the defenceless animal had been shot.
A spokesman for the practice said: “Unfortunately the bullet had severed her spinal cord, meaning anything below her waist would not function. There was nothing we could do for her and Skye had to be euthanised.
“Her family are absolutely devastated and we are deeply saddened that someone would treat an animal this way.
“We wonder if the person who pulled the trigger thought about the life they would be destroying or the upset they would cause.
We take animal cruelty extremely seriously and this will not be forgotten.”
The senseless killing took place near Virginia Street in Southport and is being investigated by Merseyside Police.
The spokesperson has warned others in the area to be vigilant, adding: “Our thoughts are with Skye’s family, they are dedicated cat owners who have owned cats their whole lives and to have experienced something like this is absolutely awful.”
Southport Community Policing Inspector Graham Fisher said: “This was an appalling incident which has led to a pet losing its life, and a great deal of upset caused for the family.
“If you saw this incident or have seen anyone in the area firing such a weapon, contact us or send us any CCTV, dashcam or ring footage, and we will do the rest.
“Not only has this cat been shot, the dangers of such reckless behaviour to any children playing nearby are also serious.
“Parents and carers who have given or suspect that young people have such weapons need to understand they are not toys and can cause devastation. I’d also encourage everyone to know where young people in their care are.”
Anyone with information about the incident can call 101 or contact @MerPolCC on Twitter or Merseyside Police Contact Centre on Facebook with crime reference 21000165556.