Trainer’s widow convicted of cruelty to two horses

A woman who was said to have dedicated her life to the welfare of horses was convicted yesterday of cruelty to two horses at Dundalk District Court.

Sally Cox (64) of Lisnawilly, Mount Avenue, Dundalk, admitted the offences which took place at Lisnawilly, Carrickmacross Road, Dundalk, on April 9th, 2013.

Judge Flann Brennan heard that ISPCA staff had notified a veterinary inspector of their concerns for two horses who were among a number of horses on the property of the accused. The mares were inspected in March and were found to be badly emaciated.

Conor MacGuill, defending, said the incidents had occurred when Ms Cox’s health was at a particularly low ebb. It was during the fodder crisis when she personally, physically, mentally and financially “did not have the wherewithal” to care for the horses, Mr MacGuilll said.

Ms Cox is the widow of a trainer and she survives on half a widow’s pension, he added. Judge Brennan said he was taking everything into account and considering the difficulties she had encountered. He convicted and fined her €250 on each of the two summonses before him.