ISPCA removes an incredible 207 animals from one Kildare property

The ISPCA got more than they had bargained for when they inspected one Kildare property recently.

A total of 207 animals were removed from a property in Co Kildare, comprising 25 dogs, 95 rabbits, 58 guinea pigs, 22 hamsters, four mice, one terrapin, one turtle and one corn snake.

ISPCA Inspector Jimmy McCormack responded to a call made to the charity’s National Animal Cruelty Helpline on 0818 515 515 regarding animal welfare concerns about several animals being kept at the property.

Inspector McCormack discovered a serious animal overpopulation and overcrowding problem. Animals of various species were being bred, and also retained, with the result that the numbers grew out of control.

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There were over 25 Cavalier King Charles Spaniels (including four pups) living in the kitchen of the house. The dogs appeared to be friendly and in generally good health but the environment was extremely stressful.

There were also hamsters, mice, a corn snake, a slider terrapin and a musk turtle in the house.

In an outside shed, there were large numbers of rabbits, guinea pigs and hamsters confined in overcrowded rusty cages stacked on top of each other. Although basic food, bedding and water was being provided, the conditions were wholly inadequate. The shed was dark with little natural light and ventilation was poor.

The assistance of the Dublin SPCA, Cork SPCA and other animal welfare charities was sought, and a large-scale rescue operation was mounted.

The people involved cooperated fully with the removal of the animals and complied with all instructions given by ISPCA Inspectors.

Subsequent veterinary examinations found that several of the small animals had respiratory issues. Two of the rabbits had neurological issues and were euthanised on veterinary advice.

Chief Inspector Dowling said: “It was a shock to see so many animals crammed into tiny spaces and cages that were not fit for purpose. Most of the small animals lived their lives in a dark, dirty mouse infested shed with insufficient room to hop around and exhibit natural behaviour.

“The situation should never have been allowed to get so out of hand but thankfully we were able to intervene before the physical health of the animals deteriorated further.

“Our priority is the welfare of the animals involved, but we also must be mindful of working with vulnerable people. We encourage members of the public to continue reporting any animal welfare concerns to our helpline”.

If you can support the ISPCA's ongoing rescue work, please consider making a life-saving donation today to support vital rescue and rehabilitation work by visiting: https://ispca.ie/donations/

Many of the rabbits, guinea pigs and hamsters found in the Kildare property will be available for rehoming in the coming weeks. Anyone interested adopting any of these animals can email rehoming@ispca.ie or visit https://ispca.ie/adoptions/ to find out more.