Derry man banned from keeping dogs following prosecution by council

At Derry Departmental Court last Thursday, 20th April 2023, Dylan Lockhart of Beraghvale, Derry was convicted of causing unnecessary suffering to two Staffordshire type dogs in June 2021.

The complaint was brought against him by Derry City and Strabane District Council under the Welfare of Animals Act (NI) 2011.

Proceedings followed an investigation by the Council’s Animal Welfare Officer following a complaint received from the PSNI.

The dogs were living in unhygienic conditions and were in an emaciated state.

District Judge McElholm imposed a six-month custodial sentence suspended for two years on Mr Lockhart and disqualified him from keeping dogs for seven years. 

The defendant was also ordered to pay costs totalling £1,325 for veterinary costs and care of the two dogs and legal fees of £226.  The Council successfully rehomed both of the dogs.

“Complaints are investigated thoroughly and where necessary formal action is taken, which may include the service of Improvement Notices or, in extreme cases, the seizure of animals.”