Harnett County authorities believe four female juveniles used hair spray or perfume to set the animal's tail on fire while its owner, Vonda Hamilton, was out of town.
Investigators say they need a little bit more information from the public before making an arrest.
Without a tail, Hamilton said the horse, Dixie, cannot swat flies or communicate with other horses and will not be able to spend much time outdoors.
The horse is also fighting an infection in its leg.
Since WRAL reported the story last week, donations and offers have poured in from across the country to help with Dixie's medical care. One woman from California even offered to send the hair from her deceased horse to Hamilton to have it transplanted to Dixie.
Deputies have posted fliers with the reward amount at local schools around the stables with hopes that students with any information will come forward. Anyone with information should call
(910) 893-9111
or
(910) 893-7115
.
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