RYAN POTTS AND MARGARET DOHERTY FROM GILFORD CONVICTED OVER ANIMAL CRUELTY AND ILLEGAL EAR CROPPING

In a significant case highlighting animal cruelty and illegal procedures, Ryan Potts, also known by his alias JR McAtamney, and his partner Margaret Doherty, both residents of Gilford, faced serious legal consequences after being found guilty of causing suffering to two dogs and permitting illegal ear cropping procedures.

Ryan Potts, born on June 18, 1995, and known within the community as a wildlife persecutor and backyard breeder, owns JR Kennels and has a history of animal welfare offences. Margaret Doherty, born on September 13, 1996, residing at 39 Edenderry Park, Banbridge, was also implicated in the case. Their convictions were upheld following an appeal hearing, bringing to light disturbing practices involving their animals.

The case originated from a complaint received in October 2017 by Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council. Acting swiftly, Animal Welfare Officers obtained a search warrant and visited a property located at Pineview Court, Gilford. Their investigation revealed troubling evidence concerning two dogs kept at the premises: a blue American Bully-type puppy approximately 10 weeks old and a Black Patterdale terrier-type.

During the inspection, officers discovered that the American Bully puppy had undergone a prohibited ear cropping procedure. The puppy’s ears had been stitched with blue suture thread, and veterinary examination indicated that the injuries had been inflicted roughly a week prior to the visit. The procedure, which is illegal, was carried out for cosmetic reasons and posed significant health risks, including infection and pain.

The Patterdale terrier was found with a severe injury to her lower jaw, which had been left untreated and subsequently became infected. Due to the severity of her condition, the attending veterinarian determined that humane euthanasia was necessary to prevent further suffering. This tragic outcome underscored the neglect and cruelty inflicted upon the animals involved.

Ryan Potts was convicted of causing unnecessary suffering to both dogs and for permitting the illegal ear cropping procedure. Margaret Doherty was also found guilty of allowing the ear cropping to take place, despite the procedure being registered in her name. The court’s findings confirmed that the pair had arranged for the ear cropping of a young puppy, which was only 10 weeks old at the time.

Enforcement actions were taken by the council following the investigation. The case revealed that Potts, notorious for setting his dogs on foxes and wildlife, engaged in practices that caused significant pain and suffering. The legal penalties included a fine of £1,000 for Ryan Potts, along with an order to pay veterinary and boarding costs totaling £2,293.50, as well as legal costs of £500. Doherty received a fine of £500 for permitting the ear cropping, with additional legal costs of £200. Both individuals were also banned from owning or caring for any animals for a period of five years, a restriction that will last until February 2026.

Animal welfare authorities emphasized that ear cropping is illegal because it offers no benefit to the dog and is purely cosmetic. The procedure is painful, carries a high risk of infection, and requires weeks of recovery. A council spokesperson stated, “We as a council will do all in our power to bring enforcement measures to those that cause such suffering to a dog or indeed fail to care for the welfare of animals.” The case serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing issues surrounding illegal animal procedures and the importance of strict enforcement to protect vulnerable animals from cruelty.