ISPCA removes over 200 animals from 'overcrowded' Kildare property

ISPCA staff removing the animals. Conditions at the property were considered to be wholly inadequate. Picture: ISPCA

The ISPCA has given details on how it had to remove 207 animals from a property in Co. Kildare many of which had been crammed into tiny spaces. 

According to the ISPCA report, the overcrowded property held 25 dogs, 95 rabbits, 58 guinea pigs, 22 hamsters, 4 mice, 1 terrapin, 1 turtle and 1 corn snake.

ISPCA inspector Jimmy McCormack responded to a call made to the charity’s National Animal Cruelty Helpline regarding animal welfare concerns at the property.

On arrival, Mr McCormack discovered a serious animal overpopulation problem. Animals of various species were being bred and retained, leading to numbers growing out of control.

The report also stated that there were over 25 Cavalier King Charles Spaniels (including four puppies) living in the kitchen of 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."

There were 58 guinea pigs found on the property. Picture: ISPCA

Conditions were considered to be wholly inadequate as the shed was dark with little natural light and poor ventilation. 

"Several of the rabbits were sneezing and some had runny eyes, and guinea pigs and rabbits were housed together which is not recommended. 

In addition to the pet animals in the shed, wild mice were also living there and burrowing through the straw.

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

"The people involved fully acknowledged that the numbers of animals had gotten out of control and had become too much for them. They 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, their nails were overgrown and one of the rabbits had to have faeces caked on its back end clipped away. 

"Sadly, two of the rabbits had neurological issues and were euthanised on veterinary advice."

ISPCA Inspector Jimmy McCormack responded to a call made to the charity’s National Animal Cruelty Helpline regarding animal welfare concerns. Picture: ISPCA

Chief inspector Conor 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”.