At a previous court sitting on 4th July 2025, evidence was heard of how ISPCA Inspector Lyndsey Delaney called to the defendant’s property on 25th March 2024 and observed a male Springer Spaniel chained to a weight in the front garden. The dog was in very poor body condition, his coat was matted, and he was extremely nervous.
There was a build-up of faeces that had been walked into the soil by the dog in the area where he was chained. The shelter for the dog was inadequate with a broken roof and some of the front of the kennel missing.
The dog, now named Jasper, was later seized and subsequently surrendered. A veterinary examination determined that Jasper was emaciated and had been neglected for a substantial period of time, and that he was caused profound suffering.
Judge Raymond Finnegan ordered the accused to pay €977 in costs to the ISPCA and adjourned the matter to 5th September. On imposing the lifetime disqualification Judge Finnegan addressed the defendant saying “You’re a very lucky man that you’re not going to prison here today. Now get out of my sight before I change my mind”. He also fined him €1,000.
Inspector Delaney commented: “When I first met Jasper, he was the most underweight and fearful dog. Once he was away from his situation, he immediately turned into the sweetest boy. I’m delighted that he was very quickly rehomed after being surrendered and is now living a happy life in his new home”.
Please continue to report any suspicions of animal cruelty or neglect to the ISPCA National Animal Cruelty Helpline by calling 0818 515 515, email [email protected] or report online here: https://ispca.ie/report-cruelty/.
If you can, please support the ISPCA’s vital rescue work by making a life-saving donation today. You will be helping rescue more animals from appalling situations: https://ispca.ie/donations/
