Cow deliberately killed with hunting arrows in Melbourne’s outer east

A COW has died in a horrific case of animal cruelty, after it was shot at point-blank range with hunting arrows, in Dixons Creek.

Irene Meredith with her surviving cows.

A COW has died in an horrific case of animal cruelty after being shot at point blank range with hunting arrows.

The traumatic attack on the placid animal happened at a 16ha Bottings Lane property in Dixon’s Creek sometime between 2 and 3pm on Saturday, May 19.

Hobby farm owner Irene Meredith said the lovely-natured cow was only 14 months old, and had died in agony.

“It was absolutely horrific,” Ms Meredith said.

The hand-reared cow was shot with hunting arrows, by someone from the roadside.

“They shot her at point-blank range,” she said.

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Despite a Wandin Veterinary Clinic vet working on the animal for more than two hours, the cow’s wounds were extensive and it died two days later.

Ms Meredith, found the cow with an arrow sticking out of its ribs, which shredded its lungs.

The second arrow was found in the paddock but had sliced through the cow’s back, making a 25cm tear, revealing the animal’s spine, damaging nerves and affecting its digestion.

“She was in agony. She died because she couldn’t breathe,” she said.

Ms Meredith said the cow had a beautiful nature and would run up to meet people.

“If this person has spoken to someone about shooting something, they might have a conscience and let police know.”

Healesville police Leading Senior Constable Jarrod Rollason said another Dixon’s Creek property owner had found a similar hunting arrow in a paddock and police were investigating whether the two incidents were linked.

“It’s animal cruelty and anyone caught will be prosecuted,” Leading Sen-Constable Rollason said.

Anyone with information is urged to phone police 5962 4422 or contact Crime Stoppers.