The ISPCA is appealing for information after two horses were found having been shot in Glenanaar, Ardpatrick, Killmallock, on the Cork/Limerick county border.
An ISPCA inspector was informed that a member of the public had found a dead horse lying on the side of the road.
There was also another mare in a nearby field, unable to stand and bleeding profusely from a wound on her side.
That horse also lost a foal she was carrying.
A third mare was running loose.
A vet was called but the wounded horse died from her injuries.
The uninjured loose horse was taken away from the scene and is being cared for.
A veterinary examination revealed that both dead animals had been shot, both suffering a single puncture wound to their right flank.
ISPCA’s Chief Inspector Conor Dowling said: "At this point in time we do not know how the horses came to be in this position.
"None are identifiable as they were not microchipped. Whatever the circumstances, these animals endured the most terrible suffering.
"We appeal to anyone with any information regarding this incident to contact the ISPCA National Animal Cruelty Helpline on 1890 515 515 or Killmallock Garda Station."
