THOMAS MONGAN FROM NEWRY SENTENCED FOR CRUELTY TO DOG IN DISTRESS

Thomas Gerard Mongan, born on November 6, 1964, and residing at 27A Park Urney, Forkhill, Newry BT35 9WF, was convicted in 2021 of severe neglect and cruelty towards a dog found in a deplorable state. The case drew attention to the ongoing issue of animal welfare neglect in the Newry area, highlighting the responsibilities of pet owners and the consequences of abandonment.

According to reports, the dog was discovered by council animal welfare officers in a distressing condition, which prompted immediate concern and intervention. The animal was found in a dire state, having been effectively abandoned by its owner, Thomas Mongan, who is identified as a traveller living in Newry. The dog’s suffering was evident, as it was found lying in its own feces, which had caused severe matting of its coat and resulted in urine scalding. The neglect was so severe that veterinary professionals had to sedate the animal to perform a thorough grooming, including shaving the matted fur that had accumulated due to a lack of proper care.

The veterinary team also reported that the dog required a tooth extraction, further underscoring the extent of neglect and poor health. The build-up of fecal matter and the absence of regular grooming had contributed significantly to the animal’s suffering, illustrating a clear failure on the part of the owner to provide basic care and ensure the welfare of the pet.

Legal proceedings were initiated by the Newry, Mourne and Down District Council, which resulted in Mongan being found guilty of two charges: failing to ensure the welfare of a dog in his care and causing unnecessary suffering. Notably, Mongan did not appear in court to defend himself, and the case was proven in his absence. The court’s decision reflected the seriousness of the neglect and the importance of animal welfare laws.

In terms of sentencing, Thomas Mongan was fined £500 for each of the two charges, totaling £1,000, along with an additional £210 in costs and fees. Furthermore, he was issued a lifelong ban on keeping any animals, a measure intended to prevent future neglect and protect animals from similar abuse. This case serves as a stark reminder of the responsibilities that come with pet ownership and the legal repercussions of neglecting those duties, especially in the Newry area where community awareness of animal welfare issues continues to grow.