Scottish SPCA urgently seeking homes for the rescued animals

The horses and donkeys of the biggest-ever case of illegal animal transporting are seeking homes with the support and efforts of the Scottish SPCA.

The offence was committed at Cairnryan in 2011 and the culprit, Laurence McAllister of County Antrim, was fined £13,500 and banned from transporting horses for three years.

After the animals’ rescue, they were signed over to the charity’s care and, with their help, have been recovering for more than a year. Nine horses and three donkeys were found, however one foal could not be saved. An appeal is now in place for suitable owners to come forward and adopt the eight horses and three donkeys.

Three horses are being cared for at the charity's rescue and rehoming centre in Edinburgh while three are being looked after at its centre in Drumoak, Aberdeenshire.
A further two horses and three donkeys have been recovering at private stables.

Ch Supt Mike Flynn said: "These horses and donkeys have spent over a year being rehabilitated by our dedicated staff. Some required veterinary treatment for injuries and illnesses, however, these animals did not just need our help to recover physically. Many were also affected mentally and it has taken a great deal of time to bring them round to the point where they are ready to be rehomed."

He said one adult donkey had been in an "extremely poor condition" and had been "very fearful of humans".

"We also have her foal, who was born in our care, and a second adult donkey," he added. "All three are very closely bonded so we are keeping them together. We therefore need to find someone who can provide for the needs of all three and has adequate accommodation to house them comfortably."