Donegal woman becomes first to be prosecuted under Animal Health and Welfare Act
A Donegal woman has become the first person to be successfully prosecuted under the Animal Health and Welfare Act, as she pleaded guilty to abandoning a dog with no food or water.
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A small female terrier dog was found in a rented property at Leitir Ard, Letterkenny, Co. Donegal, by ISPCA Inspector Kevin McGinley on March 14, 2014.
He had responded to a call two days earlier following reports that a dog had been abandoned there, he could hear a dog inside the house but could not see one. He left a note asking the occupant to contact him.
Inspector McGinley returned on March 14 and contacted the Gardaí and Local Authority for assistance.
The dog was discovered living in the kitchen area, which was heavily contaminated with dog faeces and urine.
The dog’s owner, Natalie McGranaghan was traced to her mother’s home and she initially said that the dog called Megan had been sold.
She later admitted she had not sold the dog, but claimed she had fed it two days earlier. A bucket filled with water had been left beside the dog, however she was unable to drink from it as it was too tall for her to reach.
The accused did not appear in court but pleaded guilty through her solicitor Ciaran O’Gorman.
Sentencing was adjourned until July 16, 2015, and costs of €405 have been awarded.
Judge Paul Kelly said: "Looking at these pictures, this was an appalling thing to do to an unfortunate defenceless animal."
Inspector McGinley said: "The dog was clearly in a poor state before being seized and we are pleased to be able to help before her health deteriorated further. Megan made a full recovery and has since been rehomed.
"This case clearly demonstrates how the new Animal Health and Welfare Act can work in practice to help a defenceless dog like Megan. We are satisfied with the conviction in this case of neglect, and would like to thank all involved for their efforts."
Dr Andrew Kelly, CEO of the ISPCA, said all animal owners have a responsibility to provide for their animals' needs.
He said: "This is the first conviction under the Animal Health and Welfare Act which came into force in March 2014.
"The ISPCA hopes that this case will send out a message that animal neglect is not acceptable and we will do all we can to end animal abuse in Ireland."
