Limerick dog dies after being attacked by neighbour's dog

A MALTESE Terrier died after it was attacked by a neighbour’s dog, Newcastle West Court heard.

Matthew Ryan, aged 63, of Ballinroche East, Crecora pleaded guilty to having an uncontrolled dog (owner) under the Control of Dogs Act.

The “unfortunate incident” occurred at Grange House, Logavinshire, Crecora on May 5, 2022.

Inspector Gearoid Thompson, prosecuting, said it concerned two neighbours with adjoining houses and gardens.

“The owner of a Maltese Terrier was in her garden doing a bit of work. A neighbour’s dog, a mongrel type dog, attacked her little dog. The victim’s dog died from its injuries. It was an unfortunate incident,” said Insp Thompson.

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Daniel J O’Gorman, solicitor for Mr Ryan, said it was “entirely regrettable”.

“His own dog was put down much to his chagrin,” said Mr O’Gorman.

The solicitor said his client was never before a court and never will be again. Mr O’Gorman said Mr Ryan was so unused to the justice system that he sent a court summons to his insurance company as he thought it was regarding a civil matter.

“He is fully insured. There is an insurance claim that is being sorted,” said Mr O‘Gorman, who asked Judge Carol Anne Coolican to deal with the matter in a way that would leave Mr Ryan without a conviction.

“He was never in trouble before and will never be in trouble again. The appropriate apologies were made,” said Mr O’Connor.

Judge Coolican said if Mr Ryan paid €150 to the court poor box she would strike the matter out.