Police horse dies months after being seriously hurt in car crash
Five-year-old Rocky was wounded after colliding with a Ford Focus car in Bristol on July 8.
A police horse hit by car while out on patrol has died four months later after one of his injuries didn’t heal.
Five-year-old Rocky was wounded after colliding with a Ford Focus car in Bristol on July 8.
The chestnut Irish Draft cross sustained two severe injuries to his hind leg and quarters and was treated at a specialist equine hospital.
It was initially though Rocky would be able to return to service or be retired to a field but he didn’t recover as hoped.
Avon and Somerset Police said ‘devastated’ grooms and officers said their goodbyes to the horse on November 28 before he was put down.
A force spokesman said Rocky was given ‘expert care’ during his rehabilitation.
He said: ‘While one of his injuries showed signs of improvement, Rocky did not respond to treatment as we’d hoped in relation to the other injury.
‘This severely impacted on his quality of life, meaning even retirement to the field pain-free was no longer possible.
‘The mounted section are truly devastated at this outcome and we ask for your understanding during this incredibly difficult time.’
Rocky’s rider and the car driver, a man in his 70s, were taken to hospital following the crash on Beggar Bush Lane.
Neither had injuries believed to be life-threatening or life-changing.
After the force shared the update today, other police forces sent their condolences.
South Wales Police tweeted: ‘We’re really sorry to hear this – sleep peacefully, Rocky. Best wishes to the whole team, from all of your friends here in South Wales.’
Merseyside Police Mounted Section wrote: ‘We are so sorry to read this sad news! We are sending our love and condolences to everyone in your department.’
Bristol Lord Mayor Cllr Paula O’Rourke said: ‘So very sad to heard this. RIP Rocky and thank you for your service. My thoughts are with his rider and all those who cared for him
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