An Garda Síochána has issued a statement following outrage online surrounding a suspected "neglected dog" in Laois.

Appeals were made by the Kildare Animal Foundation concerning a the animal which was taken in and then removed from their care to be returned to its owner.

The animal foundation have posted a series of photos and videos of the dog to social media, which have sparked a debate online.

Pictured: The dog that was seized by Laois Gardaí on July 12. Photo: Kildare Animal Foundation

Laois Gardaí have stated that online commentary surrounding the welfare of the dog has been inaccurate and caused upset to the owner.

"While well-intended, the commentary shared on social media regarding the welfare of a dog in Co. Laois has not been accurate or helpful, and has caused upset to the dog's owner," Gardaí stated.

"On Saturday, 12th of July 2025 we responded to a call to assist at a house in Co. Laois where it was alleged by a member of the public that a dog was in poor condition.

"We located the dog and checked its welfare. As the homeowner was not present, the dog was taken into our care while enquiries were being undertaken.

"The dog was brought to a veterinarian in Co. Kildare for assessment and any required medical care. The vet confirmed that the dog is diabetic and that this condition requires ongoing medical treatment in order to address the dog's seemingly frail appearance," Gardaí said.

"A volunteer with a local animal welfare charity attended this medical appointment with the Garda, was informed by the vet of the same expert view and the dog was subsequently taken into care."

Pictured: a photo of the dog posted online by the Kildare Animal Foundation

Gardaí state that on Sunday July 13, they returned to the Laois house where the dog had been seized the previous day, amid concerns for its welfare.

"We spoke with the dog's owner to explain the circumstances and why we seized her animal. A vet has provided us with proof of the dog's diagnosis and confirmed that the dog has been under their care regularly for the past number of years. At the dog's most recent appointment this year, the vet determined that the dog's health was within the normal range for her condition," they said.

"The vet that first assessed the dog confirmed that the dog's condition was acceptable and free to return home to its owner.
We are satisfied that the dog is cared for, will continue to check-in to ensure the vet's care plan for diabetes is followed and therefore returned the dog to its rightful owner," they say.

Gardaí say that they take concerns raised regarding an animal's welfare 'very seriously', and look at such instances 'thoroughly'. 

"We'll continue to work closely with those that volunteer with animal welfare charities, those working with the Department of Agriculture and Local Authorities nationwide," Gardaí finished.

The Kildare Animal Foundation have said that they are working to return the dog to their care.

Above: a video posted by the Kildare Animal Foundation with photos and clips of the dog

"We have had meaningful discussions with Gardaí in County Kildare who are conducting their own enquiries despite the fact that the rescue did not even happen in this county."

Read Next: Laois autism charity issue fundraising appeal