Appeal following cat deaths in Burnleywood

Date published: 10 September 2010

Police are appealing for members of the public to come forward with information after several cats were found dead and a ferret was injured in Burnleywood last month.

The first incident took place at approximately 9.30pm on (Thursday 2nd August 2010) on Hollingreave Road. A group of men were seen in a white four wheel drive car discarding a recycling box out of the vehicle and allowing three dogs to exit the vehicle and attack a ferret which was in the box.

Fortunately the men and dogs were disturbed by a member of the public and the ferret was taken to the vets and survived.

A second incident occurred 11.30am on (Saturday 28th August 2010) on Kirkgate in Burnleywood where it is believed that a group of men have purposely incited a dog to kill a ginger cat.

The incident was witnessed by adults and children and the dog is described as being a dark brown dog similar breed to a Staffordshire bull terrier possibly crossed with a lurcher.

Four dead cats have also been found in the rear yard of derelict houses on Branch Road within the past two weeks.

Burnley Community Beat Manager Louise Blackey said: "These are serious offences which have caused unnecessary harm and distress to animals and their owners.

"I would ask anyone with any information about these incidents to contact me on 01282 472107 or on 08451 25 35 45 or to contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111."

"It is not known if these incidents are connected."