The couple were sentenced on Wednesday.

Gallagher received a two-month custodial sentence, suspended for two years. He was also disqualified from owning or keeping animals for five years.

In addition, he was fined £300 and ordered to pay £250 in legal costs, £45 in court costs and £150 in veterinary costs.

McLaverty received a five-month custodial sentence, suspended for two years, and was fined £500. She was ordered to pay £250 in legal costs, £45 in court costs and £150 in veterinary costs.

She was also disqualified from owning or keeping animals for five years.

A spokesperson for Antrim and Newtownabbey Council said it “gives a high priority to the welfare of domestic pets and horses and operates a rigorous enforcement policy”.

It added that it hoped the case served as a “warning to anyone who does not take appropriate care of animals”.