BANBRIDGE WOMAN SLAPPED WITH FIVE YEAR BAN FOR ‘PAINFUL’ CRUELTY TO DOG THAT RESULTED IN EUTHANASIA
A Banbridge woman has been banned from keeping dogs for five years after causing cruelty to a dog, which resulted in the animal being put to sleep.Shannon Graham, of Brookfield Meadows in the town, previously pleaded guilty to animal welfare offences under Section 4 of the Welfare of Animals (Northern Ireland) Act for causing unnecessary suffering.
Appearing before Newry Magistrates Court on Monday 2 February, 2026, Graham received an enhanced Combination Order of 18 months probation and 80 hours community service.
A Deprivation Order and a Disqualification Order for five years were also granted.
The prosecution was brought by Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon (ABC) Borough Council after a report received concerning the welfare of a dog kept at Ms Graham’s address in Banbridge.
Animal Welfare Officers found an adult male Staffordshire Bull terrier type dog in very poor condition, with open weeping sores over the body, crying and whimpering.
A vet examined the dog and concluded it was suffering severely from a skin condition and was in a lot of pain.
The vet recommended immediate euthanasia on welfare grounds.
The Council expressed that it prioritizes the welfare of pets and operates a strict enforcement policy to ensure compliance.
Complaints are thoroughly investigated, and legal action may include seizure or prosecution, serving as a warning to negligent animal owners.
