Pet Hotel Owner Who Neglected Dozens of Dogs Has Sentenced Adjourned

By Paul Higgins

The plea and sentence of a Co. Antrim woman who neglected the needs of almost 40 dogs was adjourned today (Tues).

Paula McIvor was due to be sentenced at Lisburn Magistrates Court but the court heard that “the pre-sentence report (PSR) is not available.”

At an earlier hearing, 43-year-old McIvor, from the Belfast Road in Glenavy, entered guilty pleas to a total of six charges, committed between 12 July and 29 August 2023.

The particulars of the offences disclose that “at premises known as Waggies Pet Hotel” on the Belfast Road in Glenavy, McIvor failed to take reasonable steps to meet the needs of:

* Sam, the Golden retriever;

* Steve, Bichon Frise/Poodle cross;

* Tonks, a Border Collie;

* 36 other unnamed dogs.  

In addition to charges of failure to ensure the needs of the animals were met, McIvor has also admitted causing unnecessary suffering to Tonks, the border collie. 

The background of the case has not yet been fully opened, save for the fact that, sadly, one dog had to be put to sleep. 

In court today (Tues), defence counsel asked for the case to be adjourned until such times as the PSR is available. 

District Judge Rosie Watters agreed and adjourned the case to 16 September. 

ENDS