This post contains images of a graphic nature that may cause upset
A man has been sentenced to three years in prison for animal cruelty after hundreds of dogs and 11 horses were found living in “appalling conditions” on his County Carlow farm.
The ISPCA said the animals were living in “harrowing” conditions on the farm in Myshall, with many suffering from untreated injuries with chronic skin, eye and teeth problems.
Many had infected paws and heavily matted fur from living in urine-soaked straw.
The animal welfare organisation said Judge James McCourt, who handed down the sentence, commented: “Words fail me to describe what those pictures depict. It is extraordinary to find someone of farming stock guilty of such an appalling crime best illustrated by the video footage we sat through this morning and photographs presented to the court.”
"Harrowing"
ISPCA Chief Inspector Conor Dowling said the “horror and sheer size” of the rescue operation was extremely challenging for the inspectors, carers and volunteers involved.
“We discovered a number of dead animals scattered around the property, some of which were used to feed the dogs,” he said.
“It was harrowing. The living conditions these animals had to endure can only be described as squalid.
“Many of the animals did not have access to water or suitable food.”
Dogs living in appalling conditions on a Carlow farm. Image: ISPCARescue
He thanked the Gardaí “who initiated this operation and who put huge efforts into ensuring that it was brought to the conclusion we saw today” and the animal-loving public who offered support with donations and re-homing the animals.
Some of the puppies were only a few days old and over 20 of the females were either nursing or heavily pregnant.
It was the largest rescue operation the ISPCA has ever carried out.
Percy, one of the dogs rescued from a farm in Carlow, happy in his new home. Image: ISPCAThe man, a licensed dog-breeder, pleaded guilty to 30 charges including causing or permitting animal cruelty and failing to protect the welfare of an animal.
He was originally charged with 252 offences – with remainder taken into consideration by the court.
He was also ordered to pay €35,000 to the ISPCA and has been banned from keeping dogs or equine animals for life.
His wife pleaded guilty to 30 charges of permitting animal cruelty and was handed a one-year suspended sentence. She was banned from keeping dogs for 15 years.
Gardaí and ISPCA inspectors discovered the animals after they carried out a joint search of the farm on April 14th 2015.
Dogs living in appalling conditions on a Carlow farm
Animal cruelty
Junior minister Seán Canney, who has responsibility for dog breeding establishments, said: "This was an horrific case of animal cruelty on an unprecedented scale."
"I welcome the outcome of this case, which sends a strong signal to rogue dog breeding establishments.”
He noted that new measures aimed at tackling rogue breeders came into force this year.
The guidelines focus on the welfare of dogs and pups and local authorities the power to make unannounced inspections of dog breeding establishments.
A dog rescued from a Carlow farm
ISPCA Chief Inspector Dowling said the organisation had helped to create the new guidelines and had given them a “cautious welcome.”
“The ISPCA is at the forefront of animal welfare and is leading the fight against unscrupulous puppy breeders in Ireland,” he said.
“We work tirelessly behind the scenes.
“Last year, ISPCA Inspectors seized or had surrendered to them over 600 dogs.
“These included 127 from two different unlicensed breeding premises. Files were prepared with a view to prosecutions being initiated against the dog breeders in question.”
A dog living in appalling conditions on a Carlow farmBreeders
The ISPCA is continuing its work educating the public on how to source a pet responsibly and safely.
It is encouraging anyone thinking of getting a new pet to always consider adopting from a reputable rescue centre first.
If you are considering buying a pet online it is essential to do your research and know how to spot when a puppy has been bred in poor conditions.
The ISPCA is urging the public to visit www.ipaag.ie for a checklist and “walk away if you spot any red flags.”
