The one-year-old terrier was “severely malnourished” and weighed just 6.9kg
A couple from Co Antrim have been sentenced for dog welfare offences after an underweight dog was found living at their property in “dirty conditions.”
Jason Gallagher and Aleshia McLaverty, both of Islandbawn Drive in Antrim, were sentenced at Antrim Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday, August 26, having pleaded guilty to dog welfare offences. Gallagher pleaded guilty to failing to ensure the dog’s welfare, while McLaverty pleaded guilty to causing unnecessary suffering to the dog.
The criminal proceedings followed an investigation by Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council’s Animal Welfare Team after the PSNI reported that a dog had been seen living at the property in dirty conditions and appeared underweight.
Council officers attended the property that same day and found a terrier-cross dog which was severely underweight. Although the property had been cleaned before the Animal Welfare Officers arrived, police body-worn camera footage showed the dog living in a room where the floor and bedding were strewn with faeces, with no access to water.
Council officers removed the dog and took it to the Council vet who certified the animal as suffering.
A report from the Council vet stated: “The dog was a one-year-old, approximately, entire male wheaten-coloured terrier cross. He was severely malnourished and underweight, weighing just 6.9kg, with a body condition score of 1/5. He also had very overgrown nails.
“On physical examination, he had normal vital signs and was very hungry when offered food. I certified this animal as suffering due to his body condition score, inadequate environment and unsanitary conditions.”
On Wednesday, August 26, District Judge Kennedy sentenced both individuals. Jason Gallagher received a two-month custodial sentence, suspended for two years.
He was also disqualified from owning or keeping animals for five years. In addition, he was fined £300 and ordered to pay £250 in legal costs, £45 in court costs and £150 in veterinary costs.
Aleshia McLaverty received a five-month custodial sentence, suspended for two years, and was fined £500. She was ordered to pay £250 in legal costs, £45 in court costs and £150 in veterinary costs. She was also disqualified from owning or keeping animals for five years.
Commenting on the case, a spokesperson for Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council said: “The Council gives a high priority to the welfare of domestic pets and horses and operates a rigorous enforcement policy to ensure full compliance with regulatory requirements.
“Complaints are investigated thoroughly and, where necessary, formal action is taken. This may include the service of Improvement Notices or, in extreme cases, the seizure of animals.
“The Council may also prosecute for offences, as in this case. We hope this serves as a warning to anyone who does not take appropriate care of animals.”
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