A Ballina man whose unlicensed greyhounds attacked a smaller dog has received a suspended prison sentence.
Thomas Collins of 49 St Patrick’s Estate, Ballina, pleaded guilty at the local District Court to a charge of failing to control his dogs on August 28, 2021. He also admitted to having no licence for either of the two greyhounds.
Sgt John O’Reilly had previously told the court that the complainant was moving cattle near his home when the defendant walked past with two greyhounds. The two dogs jumped into the complainant’s front garden and attacked his own dog, a small terrier.
Sgt O’Reilly said the greyhounds had no leads or muzzles and subsequently ran off. The defendant also left the scene. The bill to treat the injured pet came to €735.
Collins has nine previous convictions.
Judge Fiona Lydon had asked the defendant to cover the veterinary bill and the case was adjourned on that basis.
Last Friday, solicitor John Gordon said Collins had saved the €735 over a lengthy period from his dole.
Collins is no longer in possession of the two greyhounds, having given them to a friend. However, it then emerged that the friend in question is currently in Garda custody, which concerned Judge Lydon.
Appealing for leniency, Mr Gordon stated: “He has complied fully in every respect apart from elements outside his control and he has seriously learned his lesson.”
Judge Lydon imposed a two-month jail term which she suspended on condition the defendant continues to have a dog licence.
