NEWRY WOMAN STEPHANIE MCLOUGHLIN SENTENCED FOR CRUELTY TO DOGS IN HORRIFIC CONDITIONS

In July 2023, a disturbing case of animal neglect came to light in Newry, where Stephanie McLoughlin, formerly residing at Barcroft Park, was found to have kept eight dogs in deplorable conditions. The case was brought before Newry Magistrates’ Court after McLoughlin pleaded guilty to charges of causing unnecessary suffering to her animals and neglecting their basic welfare needs.

The charges stemmed from an investigation initiated by the Newry, Mourne and Down District Council, under the provisions of the Welfare of Animals Act (Northern Ireland) 2011. The case was triggered by a report concerning the welfare of dogs kept at McLoughlin’s property. An Animal Welfare Officer visited the premises on June 28, 2021, and what they discovered was deeply troubling. At the rear of the property, the officer observed a terrier-type dog, while three other terrier-type dogs were found on the living room windowsill. All of these animals appeared to be in poor health, frail, and suffering from chronic skin conditions that indicated long-term neglect.

When the officer attempted to access the property, McLoughlin became aggressive and refused entry. She also proceeded to remove three dogs from the premises, prompting the police to be called in to assist with the investigation and ensure proper access could be gained. Once authorities managed to enter the property, they were met with extremely unhygienic conditions. The floors were littered with canine feces, discarded waste materials, and tin cans showing signs of bite marks from the dogs. A strong smell of ammonia, associated with urine and excrement, permeated the air, highlighting the unsanitary environment in which the animals were kept.

Following the inspection, the Council’s contracted veterinarian assessed both the animals and their environment. It was determined that all eight dogs needed to be removed from the property immediately due to the severe conditions and health risks. The veterinarian’s examination revealed that six of these dogs were suffering from advanced inflammatory parasitic skin disease, which had been ongoing for a significant period. The severity of their condition was such that humane euthanasia was deemed necessary to prevent further suffering. The remaining two dogs, however, were in a condition that allowed them to be rehomed through the Council’s rescue efforts.

During the court proceedings, the judge considered the facts of the case, McLoughlin’s guilty plea, and her mitigation statements. As a result, she was handed a disqualification order preventing her from owning or caring for animals for ten years. Additionally, she was fined £250 for causing unnecessary suffering and received a conditional discharge for two years, reflecting her failure to ensure the animals’ welfare. The court also ordered her to pay £176 in legal costs and a £15 offender’s levy. This case underscores the importance of animal welfare laws and the consequences faced by those who neglect their responsibilities as pet owners.