HAMPSHIRE horse owners have been warned to be on their guard after four animals were deliberately slashed.

Staff at Victri Sports Horses in Lavey Lane, Titchfield , said they were shocked to find their horses had been cut.

Three animals at the centre have been left needing vet inary treatment after they were discovered with deep wounds on their haunches.

Another 14-week-old foul at a nearby paddock has also been deliberately slashed.

Manager at Victri Sports Horses, Emma Tickner, said: “It has been done in a place where they’re not going to die.

“But these cuts are literally through the muscle.

“We’re really worried about it – the horses aren’t in a good way now, if I’m honest.

“I don’t see how people could do this to horses.”

The centre has also had electric fencing cut and people have been seen in the yard with torches late at night.

The horse slashing incidents happened between Sunday, August 5 and Monday, August 13.

Police are urging owners to take extra precautions – including taking colour photographs of their horses, having a microchip implanted and ensuring that fences and hedges are in a good state of repair.

Sergeant Aaron Freemantle, from Park Gate police, said: “Attacks on horses are very rare but we always take reports such as these seriously.“ It is important to establish whether a crime has taken place and if so to take appropriate action to prevent further incidents and locate those responsible.

“I would appeal to members of the public and horse owners to report any activity they deem to be suspicious in the vicinity of horse paddocks and for horse owners to review their security.”

A 73-year-old man from Fareham has been arrested in connection with the recent attacks.

He has been released on police bail until Thursday, October 11.