Goat put down after horns ripped out

A goat had to be put down after his horns were ripped out in a "barbaric" attack, the RSPCA said today.

Sidney, a 19-year-old black pygmy goat, was found dripping in blood after he had his horns pulled out, one leg broken in two places and another dislocated.

The hunt is on to find the people behind the "senseless" act, a spokesman said.

Sidney was attacked at Tennyson Horse and Pony Sanctuary in Middleton, Greater Manchester, between 8pm on Thursday August 26 and noon the following day.

He had to be put to sleep by a vet because his injuries were so horrific.

His devastated owner John Starkey, who runs the sanctuary, said the goat was like a member of his family and had lived there for a decade.

He said: "He was so friendly with people he knew, but he probably would have run away from strangers.

"We can't believe anyone would carry out such a barbaric act. Lots of people who live around here used to come and feed Sid and will be very upset to hear what has happened to him."

RSPCA inspector Caroline Hall said it was one of the worst cases of animal cruelty she had ever seen.

"It was dreadful - Sidney had two huge caverns in his head where his horns had been ripped out and he was dripping in blood.

"A vet examined Sidney, and because he was so badly injured it was kindest to end his suffering and put him to sleep."

A fence was damaged, but no other animals were harmed and nothing appears to have been stolen during the incident, she said.

"Those responsible for this dreadful attack would probably have gone home muddy and covered in blood. If you have any information at all about this incident, then please get in touch as soon as possible."

Anyone with information should contact the RSPCA in confidence on 0300 1234 999 and leave a message for RSPCA inspector Caroline Hall.