Alpha, a black Labrador cross, was seized by the DSPCA Inspectors from Swords, Co. Dublin because he was living in confined space in a side entrance full of dog faeces without shelter. Alpha was also very underweight. Alpha’s owner pleaded guilty to three counts under the Act and received a lifetime ban on the ownership of any dog and a fine of €1,000. On arrival at the DSPCA, Alpha weighed just 19.8kg (30-40kg is normal) but at time of rehoming he weighed 27kg and has continued to gain and maintain a healthy amount of weight in his new home.