A Craigavon man has been convicted in court over animal cruelty, after a dog was found to be suffering from chronic malnutrition.
Carter Gilpin, of Westacres appeared at Craigavon Magistrates’ Court on Monday, April 20 for offences under the Welfare of Animals Act (NI) 2011.
Gilpin was convicted on two counts; namely failing to meet the reasonable needs of a dog and failing to comply with an Improvement Notice served by officers from Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council.
District Judge Heaney remarked that the condition of the dog was distressing and the state of its living quarters in the property was wholly unsuitable.
The case was brought after Council’s Animal Welfare Officers responded to a report and attended the property and found a German Shepherd type dog locked inside the kitchen. The dog appeared thin and the floor of the property was covered in urine and dog faeces.
A vet concluded that the dog was underweight indicating chronic malnutrition and was being kept in unsuitable and unhygienic conditions and was likely to suffer, if not removed from the property.
After hearing mitigation from the defendant’s solicitor, District Judge Heaney imposed a fine of £150 on each charge plus the offender levy of £15 (total of £315.00). An Order was also made for the rehoming of the dog by the Council.
Gilpin has indicated that he will appeal the conviction.
A spokesperson for ABC Council said: “Council gives a high priority to the welfare of domestic pets and horses and operates a rigorous enforcement policy to ensure full compliance of regulatory requirements.
“Complaints are investigated thoroughly and where necessary formal action is taken, which may include the service of Improvement Notices, or in extreme cases, seizure of animals. The Council may also prosecute for offences such as in this case which should serve as a warning to anyone who does not take appropriate care of animals.”
To report an animal welfare concern, telephone 02837 515 800 or send an email to animalwelfare@armaghbanbridgecraigavon.gov.uk (calls and emails will only be responded to during office hours which are Monday to Friday 9am-5pm).
If an animal requires urgent attention, you may wish to contact a local vet.
