Two people have been before the district court at Clonakilty in west Cork on animal health and welfare charges, including neglecting 14 dogs in their possession.
William and Eleanor Sheehy of Grange More, Timoleague, Co Cork, are both facing nine charges each.
They are being prosecuted by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine.
The charges allege that on 23 March 2023, both kept the dogs in pens that were soiled with urine and faeces, without adequate shelter, bedding or nutrition, and that they failed to safeguard the health of the dogs.
The charges also allege that they caused or permitted food and water bowls to be contaminated with debris, rubbish or wood shavings.
Another charge alleges that they failed to ensure the dogs were regularly inspected and groomed to prevent their coats becoming matted in faeces and urine, in such a manner to pull on the skin, causing suffering.
The charges allege that Mr Sheehy and Ms Sheehy neglected the dogs, or were reckless regarding the animals' health or welfare, and that they caused or permitted unnecessary suffering to the dogs.
Solicitor Conrad Murphy represented the defendants, who were present in court.
Mr Murphy told Judge James McNulty he had been asked by the Department of Agriculture to seek an adjournment to allow for the Sheehys' premises to be inspected.
The case will be back before the court again on 5 November.
