A Donegal man has been banned from keeping dogs for ten years after pleading guilty to seven counts of cruelty to the animals.

George Cavanagh, of Carrowhugh, Greencastle, Co. Donegal was convicted at Donegal District Court.

The 77 year old refused to give up his dogs voluntarily.

Chief Inspector with the ISPCA is Conor Dowling;In January and February 2011 - 18 dogs were found living in poor conditions at Mr. Cavanagh’s home and an out farm. 

 Some were tied on short tethers and others confined in sheds and a stationary jeep with inadequate ventilation. Many were deprived access to water and suitable shelter and bedding.  In addition, they discovered the decomposing and unburied carcasses of three other dogs.

 The court heard how Inspector McGinley tried to persuade Mr. Cavanagh to voluntarily surrender the majority of the dogs to the care of the ISPCA, but that Mr. Cavanagh refused to cooperate.

Judge Paul Kelly banned Mr. Cavanagh from keeping dogs for ten years and fined him a total of €500. He also ordered that Mr. Cavanagh pay costs of €400 to a vet that accompanied the Gardai and ISPCA on an inspection. The vet, Stuart Johnston, kindly requested that his fee be paid to the ISPCA. 

Anybody wishing to offer assistance should contact the ISPCA on 043 33 25035.  Details are also available on the website www.ispca.ie .