Mountrath man caused dog’s suffering

A MOUNTRATH man convicted of animal cruelty has been given community service at the district court in Portlaoise, with Judge Catherine Staines suggesting he complete 200 hours with the ISPCA.

The judge also banned Patsy Sydes, of 34 Fr O’Connor Crescent, from keeping any animals for the next five years, after he was found guilty of keeping a dog on his property which was “emaciated and dishevelled”.

Inspector Aidan Farrelly gave evidence that on July 24 last year, an ISPCA inspector called to Sydes’ home where he found the dog in an emaciated and dishevelled condition. Sydes told the inspector that the dog had a disease and he claimed he had obtained a prescription for it.

Sydes has no previous convictions.

Defence, Mr Tom O’Grady said that Sydes had been looking after the dog for some time, and he noticed that it was getting thinner and deteriorating. He was advised that there was a worming problem and a course of medication would sort it out.

“He should have brought it to a vet,” admitted Mr O’Grady.

“This is appalling,” declared Judge Staines, reading a vet’s report on the animal. She noted that there were old lacerations on the dog’s ears and its nails were overgrown. The vet determined that the animal’s “pain and suffering was unnecessary and could have been avoided”.

“He shouldn’t have tried to cure the dog himself,” said Mr O’Grady.

The judge imposed 200 hours’ community service in lieu of three months in prison, with a recommendation that Sydes complete his community service with the ISPCA. He must also not keep any animals for five years.

The matter has gone back to September 12 for a community service report.