Senior Garda Says Animal Abuse Cases "Not A Priority" For Force Due To Lack Of Experience And Training

Friday, 25 July 2025 12:40

By Martin Osborne

A senior Garda source has told Kfm that cases involving animal cruelty often fall into the “lower rungs” of policing priorities, largely because Gardaí are not routinely trained or resourced to deal with them effectively.

A senior Garda source has told Kfm that Gardaí lack “experience” in handling cases involving animal cruelty - as controversy grows around the return of a dog to its owner in Laois, despite a vet report stating that it was in an "emaciated and malnourished" condition.

The dog was initially taken into care by the Kildare Animal Foundation after being brought to a veterinary clinic, where a report described it as underweight and malnourished.

The dog was treated and placed in the foundation’s care.

However, it was later returned to its owner after Gardaí obtained a warrant from the courts.

Kfm understands that the volunteers are now seeking a copy of the document, fearing they may face legal repercussions for initially refusing to return the dog to its owner.

A move that they believe could have widespread implications for animal rescues across the country.

No criminal wrongdoing has been proven in relation to the dog's condition, and no charges have been brought against the owner.

A senior Garda source told Kfm that cases involving animal cruelty often fall into the “lower rungs” of policing priorities, largely because Gardaí are not routinely trained or resourced to deal with them effectively.