Missing Cat Was Shot By Air Rifle

Police in Poole are appealing for witnesses and anyone with information to come forward after a cat was shot with an air rifle in the town.

The cat, a short-haired silver spot named Barney, went missing from his home along Dalkeith Road in the Branksome Park area of Poole on Thursday, 28 April 2011. He was found injured in Westbourne on Wednesday, 8 June 2011.

Police Constable Simon Bridge, of Poole police, said:

 “Barney was taken to a veterinary surgery, where it was discovered that he had been shot with an air weapon while he had been missing.

“The wound had healed over and it is thought likely that the cat had sustained this injury soon after he had disappeared.”

Barney has made a full recovery, although his owners faced a £300 vet bill as a result of these injuries.

PC Bridge continued:

“I am appealing for anyone who has any information about this incident to contact me as soon as possible.

“I would also like to hear from anyone else who may have suffered from a similar offence and who is yet to contact Dorset Police.

“While we are keeping an open mind, this incident does not currently appear to be linked to any other reported attacks on animals.”

Witnesses and anyone with information should call Dorset Police in confidence on 01202 22 22 22 quoting incident number 13:183. Alternatively, call the free and anonymous Crimestoppers line on 0800 555 111 where mobile phone tariffs may apply.