Owner heartbroken after pet cat was 'killed by hounds and thrown over fence' in Penzance
The incident reportedly happened over the weekend
Last updated 9th Mar 2021
Police are investigating claims a pack of hounds attacked a cat and killed it in west Cornwall.
It is understood the dogs were being exercised by a man who reportedly picked up the dead animal and threw it over a fence.
The incident happened at a housing estate in Penzance on Saturday afternoon.
Carly Jose is the owner of Mini, the black rescue cat.
She told us she's in shock and wants justice for her children, as their animals are their world.
"Mini was killed in her front garden on Saturday by a pack of out of control hounds, the huntmaster was out on horseback in the village along with others on horseback, they never come through our village but decided to that day not giving us the change to keep our animals in from risk."
Carly Jose, Mini's owner
Police were called on Saturday afternoon and are investigating.
"Police are investigating a report that a pack of hounds attacked a cat and killed it, at a housing estate on Traflagar Fields, Penzance, on Saturday 6th March.
"The hounds were being exercised at the time by a man, who reportedly picked up the dead cat and threw it over a fence."
Devon and Cornwall Police
The Western Hunt says incidents like these are incredibly rare and they have apologised unreservedly to the owner of the cat.
They added that the matter is being taken very seriously and procedures are being reviewed.
In a statement, a spokesperson told ITV West Country: “The Hunt is aware of events that took place on Saturday 6th March, while the hounds were being exercised in an area where they are taken routinely, without incident, by officials of the hunt.
"The hunt has been in contact with the cat owner to apologise unreservedly for the distress this has caused and is also helping the police with their enquiries.
"Incidents of this nature involving hounds are incredibly rare due to the professionalism with which the hounds are managed, however the hunt has taken this matter very seriously and is reviewing their procedures to prevent any reoccurrence.”
Western Hunt