Over 80 dogs were found on the premises.
Two people were convicted today (Friday 24 January) of failing to safeguard the welfare of 86 dogs while involved in the operation of an illegal dog breeding establishment.
The judge sentenced the defendants to a combined amount of 280 hours community service in lieu of a prison sentence, and they have both been banned from owning dogs for the next few years.
Additionally, they were required to pay €1,230 in costs and produced a contribution of €1,070 to the ISPCA in court.
The illegal puppy farm operation was discovered following a complaint lodged by a member of the public. Inspectors discovered scores of dogs, including over 20 puppies, living in a shed.
A variety of dog breeds were present, including French Bulldogs, Shih-tzus, Cocker Spaniels, Pugs, King Charles, Cavachons, Cockapoos and Schnauzers.
The majority of the puppies have since been rehabilitated and rehoused, though four of them were euthanised on veterinary advice due to pre-existing and incurable health problems.
ISPCA Animal Welfare Inspector Karen Lyons said:
“The dogs were bred illegally purely for commercial gain with no regard for their welfare.
“There is simply no excuse for failing to provide a basic level of care for these dogs and animal neglect and mistreatment is a serious offence that will not be tolerated.”
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