A Lurgan woman who was previously banned from keeping animals has been convicted of further animal welfare offences.
Lisa Glendinning, of Marlborough Park, Lurgan appeared at Craigavon Magistrates Court on Wednesday charged with 10 offences, which included failing to comply with the requirements of a Disqualification Order made in June 2022 and failing to meet the reasonable needs of a tabby cat.
The case arose after Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council received a report relating to concerns for the welfare of a dog and several cats kept at Glendinning’s address in Lurgan.
It was reported that the house was heavily contaminated with animal faeces and complaints from members of the public indicated that Glendinning appeared to be keeping animals again, despite being subject to a 10 year disqualification from doing so.
The Council’s Animal Welfare Officers subsequently attended the property and observed food bowls and a dog kennel located at the side of her property; a cat was observed in a driveway, alongside empty ham packaging, indicating the presence and care of animals.
The Judge imposed a prison sentence of three months for all offences before the court.
In addition, a previously suspended sentence of three months, imposed on 7 June 2022, was activated to run consecutively, resulting in a total custodial sentence of six months.
The court ordered that Glendinning be disqualified from owning, keeping or participating in the keeping of animals for a period of 20 years.
She was released on her own bail of £300 pending the outcome of an appeal against the sentence.
A spokesperson for ABC Council said: “Council gives a high priority to the welfare of domestic pets and horses and operates a rigorous enforcement policy to ensure full compliance of regulatory requirements.
“Complaints are investigated thoroughly and where necessary formal action is taken, which may include the service of Improvement Notices, or in extreme cases, seizure of animals.
“The Council may also prosecute for offences such as in this case which should serve as a warning to anyone who does not take appropriate care of animals.”
To report an animal welfare concern, telephone 02837 515 800 or send an email to animalwelfare@armaghbanbridgecraigavon.gov.uk (calls and emails will only be responded to during office hours which are Monday to Friday 9am-5pm).
If an animal requires urgent attention, you may wish to contact a local vet.
