A Meath couple have been sentenced to prison for two months for the neglect of two dogs.

At Navan District, Co. Meath (July 18) Kevin Horace and Kayla Rafferty , 20 Oaklawns, Clogherboy Park, Navan, Co. Meath pleaded guilty to six offences each under sections 11, 12 and 13 of the Animal Health and Welfare Act 2013.

The charges related to two emaciated dogs, one of which died, due to its neglect.

Giving evidence in court, ISPCA Inspector James McCormack said he called to the defendants’ address on February 26, 2024, in response to a report received.

At a recent sitting of Navan District Court, Co. Meath, Andrew Byrne, Woodview Heights, Dunboyne, Co. Meath was prosecuted by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine.

The case arose after Mr Byrne Highland terrier was found straying, emaciated and in critical condition.

A concerned member of the public brought the dog to a local veterinary practice.

The dog was described by a vet as being “starved” and “in a very poor physical condition.”

Its ribs and bones were visible, its eyes sunken, and it suffered from a severe skin condition and chronic ear infections.

The vet stated that the dog would likely have died without immediate medical intervention.