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On first inspection, the suffering was so severe that a vet had to be called and the sheep were culled immediately.
Sarah Jane Watson of Ballynease Road, Portglenone, Ballymena, Co Antrim, was handed down one charge of causing unnecessary suffering to four sheep and one charge of failing to ensure the needs of the sheep were met to the extent of good practice.
The Co Antrim farmer was convicted on Tuesday at Ballymena Magistrates’ Court.
The case arose after a welfare complaint to Coleraine Veterinary Office.
A welfare inspection was then carried out by Veterinary Service Enforcement Branch.
During the inspection a vet had to attend to cull four sheep which were suffering.
Banned from keeping animals
The Co Antrim woman was banned from owning or keeping animals, being party to an arrangement under which that person controls animals and from transporting animals for seven years.
She was also handed a £500 fine, plus £31 court costs and £15 offender’s levy.
The Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) said it gives high priority to the welfare of animals and operates a vigorous enforcement policy to ensure full compliance of regulatory requirements.
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