A 49-year-old woman has appeared before the District Court on a charge of animal neglect after her dog was found dead inside her home two years ago.
Olivia Kinsella, of Meadowlands Park, Mounttown, Dún Laoghaire, is before the court charged with neglecting the welfare of an animal between 1 January and 3 March 2023.
Dún Laoghaire District Court heard that Ms Kinsella’s dog was discovered dead inside her house after concerns were raised by neighbours. Gardaí and a dog warden entered the property, where they found the deceased animal in poor condition with no access to food or water.
The court heard that veterinary evidence described the animal as emaciated, with findings consistent with neglect.
Defence counsel, Sorcha Ní Néill Fulham BL, argued that gardaí had not acted as they should if they believed there was an immediate danger, pointing to the delay between the initial welfare call and their entry. She submitted that the search of the home was therefore unlawful.
Judge Anne Watkin rejected that argument, ruling that gardaí and the council had acted lawfully given the concerns for both the welfare of the dog and the occupant.
The case was adjourned to allow for submissions and will return before the court on 9 December.