GSPCA calls for more inspections at animal facilities

Galway Bay fm newsroom – The Galway Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals is calling for annual inspections to be carried at facilities that look after animals.
Dog Warden with the GSPCA, Bartley Finnerty, says vets can carry out ad hoc inspections at kennels but these are not consistent.
The call follows a case at Loughrea court, where Sarah Gunther who runs East Galway Animal Rescue was convicted of ill-treating dogs.
8 dogs, who were in an emaciated state, housed in poor conditions, were seized by Gardaí on foot of concerns from the GSPCA.
Sarah Gunther, who told the court that she used to work for the GSPCA, pleaded guilty to the ill-treatment of the dogs.
The Judge imposed a fee of 250 euro on one of the summonses and 600 euro witness expenses.
Speaking on Galway Talks, Bartley Finnerty of the GSPCA says old legislation was referenced in the Loughrea case and new protocols are needed.