Some readers may find the details of this report distressing…
Claire Phelan of Kilbraugh, Thurles, Co Tipperary was fined €2500 for cruelty to dogs and ordered to pay €1,108 in vet costs and €1000 legal costs at Cashel District Court, on Thursday March 23.
The case related to a visit made by ISPCA Inspector Alice Lacey to the defendant’s property on December 7, 2015 to investigate allegations that a number of dogs at the property were in poor condition.
Inspector Lacey discovered five dogs, a Pomeranian, three black Labrador crosses and a saluki living in deplorable conditions in a filthy pen without adequate access to water, food or shelter.
All five dogs were underweight for their breed and two of the younger dogs had heavy worm burden. All the dogs were seized by the ISPCA and given a veterinary examination.
The Pomeranian, named Hector by rescuers, was in such poor condition, covered in muck and faeces, that its breed was initially unidentifiable. The dog had to be completely shaved under sedation where its breed was revealed and it was discovered the dog had lost all but two of its teeth.
ISPCA Inspector Lacey said: “The living conditions these dogs were kept in were horrendous and animal neglect will not be tolerated. Pet owners have a legal responsibility to provide appropriate care for their animals.
“If owners are unable to care for their animals appropriately, our Inspectors will provide advice or give instruction however, in certain circumstances animals will be seized and we will instigate legal proceedings in serious cases.”
Members of the public should continue to report animal welfare concerns to the ISPCA by contacting the National Animal Cruelty Helpline on 1890 515 515 or report online in confidence here.
The ISPCA rely heavily on public support – 90% of their income comes from kind donations and gifts in wills to enable them to continue their vital work rescuing, rehabilitating and responsibly rehoming animals.
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