A County Kildare woman has been disqualified from keeping all animals for life after admitting two offences under sections 12 and 13 of the Animal Health and Welfare Act (AHWA) 2013 at Naas District Court today, 5th July 2021.
In addition, Judge Desmond Zaidan fined the accused from Newbridge, County Kildare a total of €4,000 and instructed that she contribute €500 to ISPCA costs.
The court heard that an ISPCA Inspector called to the defendant on 9th July 2019 and saw a black and white female Collie dog, now named Daisy, that was severely underweight and with a dirty and matted coat. Daisy was surrendered to the ISPCA and taken for an immediate veterinary assessment where she was found to weigh just 11.3 Kg.
After six weeks in ISPCA care, her weight had increased to 16.35 Kg just from being fed a wholesome nutritious diet.
The accused was not present in court. Judge Zaidan asked her solicitor Tim Kennelly “What excuse does she have for this behaviour?”. Mr Kennelly replied “Very little”. In passing sentence, Judge Zaidan remarked: “Pets need to be looked after, they can’t look after themselves”.
“Thankfully this case had a happy ending with Daisy recovering fully and being rehomed with a loving family” commented Chief Inspector Dowling, “While today’s outcome cannot undo any suffering that she endured, it will hopefully send out a message as to the potential consequences if pet owners fail to adequately care for their animals”.
The ISPCA encourages members of the public to continue reporting any animal welfare concerns online here or by contacting the National Animal Cruelty Helpline on 0818 515 515 or by emailing [email protected]. If you would like to help the ISPCA continue this vital work, rescuing Ireland’s most vulnerable animals, please if you can, make a kind donation here to help the animals that are suffering now.
