Waterford Animal Welfare say a horse had to be put down in Tallow last night after it had been ridden bareback by a group of youths.
The annual Tallow Horse Fair is taking place in the town today.
Andrew Quinn of Waterford Animal Welfare said they responded to a call from Gardai last night to say there was a horse down and in a lot of pain.
They immediately organised a vet, Pat from Lismore Vets who unfortunately had humanely put the horse to sleep.
Bruising to the head and body of the horse were identified. The horse was seen earlier being driven bare back by a group of youths.
Andrew Quinn says it was very upsetting for everyone, but stressed that this is an unusual occurrence.
He says Waterford Animal Welfare will be at the Tallow Horse Fair to monitor the event today.
