Following a report of suspected neglect, NSPCA Inspectors Lowe and Finnerty attended a property in Dublin 12 on the 2nd December 2024.

Upon arrival, the inspectors explained the purpose of their visit and discovered a Boxer type dog in the back garden.

The dog was found to be extremely underweight and in very poor body condition.

Due to serious welfare concerns, the animal was removed from the property under the provisions of the Animal Health and Welfare Act 2013.

A full clinical examination carried out by the NSPCA veterinary team found that the dog, a 1.5 year old female Boxer was suffering from severe weight loss and emaciation, with a body condition score of 1/9, and was more than 41% below her ideal body weight.

Veterinary findings confirmed evidence of prolonged hunger and discomfort, caused by an inadequate provision of nutrition resulting in starvation.

NSPCA inspectors returned to the property and the defendant was interviewed under caution.

On Monday, 27 April 2026, in a Dublin District Court the defendant entered guilty pleas in respect of all four charges brought against her. The Court heard evidence from Inspector Lowe, together with submissions regarding sentencing.

Judge Halpin convicted the defendant on all offences and imposed a four month prison sentence, suspended for a period of two years on the defendant entering her own bond in the sum of €1,500.

Pursuant to Section 58 of the Animal Health and Welfare Act 2013, the Court also imposed a lifetime disqualification order preventing the defendant from owning or keeping animals.

We are very pleased to say that Joy is now living a happy and loving life after being adopted by a wonderful family. Thanks to the care she received, and the compassion shown by her new owners, Joy has been given the second chance she deserved.

The NSPCA would also like to thank members of the public for continuing to report suspected animal cruelty and neglect.

Public reports play a vital role in protecting vulnerable animals and ensuring that those responsible for cruelty are held accountable.