A Corkman has pled guilty to offences under the Animal Health and Welfare Act and was fined €500 and ordered to pay €750 in costs at Mallow District Court last month. The case stems from a visit made to John Carroll's property by ISPCA inspector Lisa O'Donovan last February where she found a number of malnourished dogs living in appalling conditions. Four Husky puppies were confined to a filthy pen, covered in faeces and urine with no access to food or water, or to clean dry bedding. A young female husky dog was tied by a chain in a disused building. She was also covered in faeces and urine and was living in a very dark area with no food or water available. The dogs were seized by the inspector and brought to the veterinarian, where it was found the female adult husky was pregnant and severely dehydrated, and one of the puppies was in a critical condition for several days. All dogs were surrendered to the ISPCA, with Inspector O'Donovan adding: “This case sends out a very clear message that animal cruelty is unacceptable. It also shows the effectiveness of the Animal Health and Welfare Act, allowing immediate intervention by an Authorised Officer where necessary. Thankfully all of the animals removed made full recoveries and were responsibly rehomed." Members of the public should report animal welfare concerns to the ISPCA by contacting the National Animal Cruelty Helpline on 1890 515 515 or report in confidence via the online cruelty complaint form on http://www.ispca/cruelty_complaint. All Images courtesy of the ISPCA