A woman in Donegal has been disqualified from keeping animals for five years after being convicted of failing to adequately feed a dog.

Katy McMonagle of Lissmullyduff, Killygordon had admitted a number of offences under the Animal Health and Welfare Act 2013 at a previous court sitting.

The woman admitted a number of offences under the Animal Health and Welfare Act 2013 and was convicted in Letterkenny District Court yesterday. On top of her ban from keeping animals, she also received a ten euro fine.

In June last year, ISPCA Senior Inspector Kevin McGinley went to the woman’s home and discovered a one-year-old female Siberian husky dog chained at the back of the property.

When he examined her, he could feel every bone in her body.

Her only shelter was a small, dilapidated wooden kennel with only two sides and no floor. There were empty food and water bowls nearby.

The dog, named Misty, was signed over to the ISPCA and was immediately brought to the Donegal Animal Hospital for treatment. On admission, the dog was found to weigh just 9.5kgs while the recommended weight for females of this breed is 17kgs -25kgs.

Misty was subsequently transferred to the ISPCA National Animal Centre in Longford where she was cared for until she completed her rehabilitation. The ISPCA said Misty made a full recovery and has since been responsibly rehomed to a loving family.

Commenting on the result yesterday, McGinley said pet owners have a legal responsibility to provide for the welfare needs of the animals in their care.

“Animal neglect and abuse will simply not be tolerated and ISPCA Inspectors can and will instigate legal proceedings if owners are failing in this regard. I am delighted Misty got the kind home she deserves”.

Members of the public are being asked to report animal welfare concerns to the ISPCA by contacting the National Animal Cruelty Helpline on 1890 515 515 or through its website.