A Wicklow couple have been fined after they admitted their dogs’ ears were cut off. 

Susan Douglas and Michael Lambert of Hazelbrook Rise, Merrymeeting, Rathnew, Co. Wicklow both pled guilty to offences under the Animal Health and Welfare Act. 

ISPCA Chief Inspector Conor Dowling dropped by the couple’s home in December 2021 after a member of the public spotted the two dogs. 

Mr Lambert told the ISPCA he had had the dogs’ ears cropped without the knowledge of Ms Douglas. 

The dogs were seized and have since been found loving homes. 

The victimised dog. Image: ISPCA. 17/1/24

Judge David Kennedy said the offence was “serious” and fined the couple €3,000. 

He also ordered them to pay an additional €1,026.55 to the ISPCA in costs and €2,460 in prosecution costs. 

They were also banned for life from keeping American bully dogs. 

“Ear cropping is a barbaric mutilation,” Chief Inspector Dowling said following the verdict. 

“The dogs on which it is inflicted are caused an incredible amount of pain during the procedure and… they can experience life-long pain as a result of having their ears cut off. 

“It also affects their ability to communicate throughout their lives. 

“It has become more prevalent in recent years with the rise in popularity of American Bullies, so much so that new legislation was introduced last autumn to put a stop to ear cropping in Ireland for good.”

Anyone who suspects an animal has been the victim of cruelty can call the ISPCA’s National Animal Cruelty Helpline on 0818 515 515.

Main image: The rehomed dog. Picture by: ISPCA