Dog Abuse Trial: Owner Denies Maltreatment, Verdict Due Feb 16, 2026
A French animal welfare case centering on the alleged maltreatment of a dog named Riya reached a critical stage on January 23, 2026, at the Correctional Tribunal of Saint-Étienne. The hearing marked the first time Riya’s suffering was the central focus of the legal proceedings. The case is unfolding alongside a separate legal challenge regarding the initial seizure of the dog.
Legal Challenges to the Proceedings
Defense Attempts to Dismiss the Case
At the opening of the hearing, the attorney for Mme N., accused of maltreatment and severe abuse of Riya, requested the case be dismissed due to alleged imprecisions in the complaint regarding the date and location of the incidents. The defense also questioned the standing of the animal welfare association to participate as a civil party and challenged whether Diane, the association’s president, was legitimately holding that position.
Maitre Beal-Cizeron, representing the civil parties, countered these arguments, citing veterinary certificates documenting Riya’s condition upon rescue. She asserted that Mme N. was fully aware of the allegations against her, having received multiple prior summonses. She emphasized the correlation between maltreatment and cruelty, and affirmed the right of the civil parties to advocate for Riya. Documentation was presented confirming Diane’s role as president of the association.
The Case Unfolds
Recounting the Events
The presiding judge reviewed the circumstances of Riya’s discovery by Diane in a garbage area. The court heard details of the urgent efforts to contact the owner – who was unreachable – and transport Riya to a veterinarian. The judge then read from a veterinary certificate detailing Riya’s suffering, including a vaginal prolapse, depression, dehydration, and self-mutilation.
Mme N.’s Testimony
Mme N., a mother and unemployed, testified that she had previously bred dogs on three occasions in ten years, though she could not recall the exact number of puppies born. She claimed a right to allow her dog to have a litter annually and stated her dogs were registered with the Livre des Origines Françaises (LOF). She explained that she left Riya in a basement room, noticed the prolapse, applied vaseline, and then left her home for 19 hours on April 8, 2023.
Mme N. stated she was unaware Riya had disappeared until contacted by the animal welfare association the following day, finding the dog had been taken to a veterinarian after being discovered in a garbage area. She admitted to leaving a litter box for Riya, despite being a dog. When questioned about Riya’s dehydration and self-mutilation, she responded, “One cannot know everything,” and stated she was attending to her ailing father.
Mme N. denied any maltreatment, pointing to her dogs’ registration as evidence, claiming those who abuse animals do not register them. She also stated she held an ACACED certification. She indicated she no longer owned animals, having given one away to her sister due to an upcoming move, but expressed a desire to reclaim Riya. Her demeanor was described as often aggressive and disrespectful, prompting reprimands from the judge.
Further Questioning Reveals Details
Maitre Béal-Cizeron questioned Mme N. about a dog named Noka, identified as belonging to her and the father of 107 puppies. Mme N. responded that the litters were the result of artificial insemination. The questioning also revealed that photos of Riya had been used in online advertisements for puppies with differing identification numbers. Mme N. identified M. S. as a partner in her dog breeding activities.
The court also heard about a July 2022 visit from the SPA (animal welfare society) following a report of caged dogs and numerous puppies and adults in poor condition at Mme N.’s property.
Plea for Riya’s Well-being
In her closing argument, Maitre Béal-Cizeron highlighted that Mme N. was celebrating her birthday during the weekend Riya was left unattended. She questioned the veracity of the claim that Mme N.’s father was hospitalized. She emphasized Diane’s swift action in rescuing Riya, abandoning personal plans to provide care. She presented photographs of Riya’s condition as evidence of her suffering.
Maitre Béal-Cizeron requested reimbursement of €8,000 for expenses incurred by the animal welfare association in caring for Riya, as well as custody of Riya for the association and a permanent ban on Mme N. owning animals.
Support from the National SPA
The attorney for the national SPA echoed these sentiments, arguing that Mme N. was incapable of providing adequate animal care and requested the seizure of any remaining animals in her possession, along with a permanent ban on ownership. The SPA also sought €2,000 in damages.
Defense’s Final Argument
The defense attorney dismissed the allegations, requesting the case be dropped, and launched a personal attack on Diane, accusing her of appropriating the dog and exploiting the situation for social media attention and financial gain. He requested €5,000 in damages for Mme N., claiming Diane was responsible for the cruelty inflicted upon Riya.
A verdict is expected on February 16, 2026, at 1:30 PM.
Frequently Asked Questions
What specific injuries did Riya sustain?
According to a veterinary certificate presented in court, Riya suffered from a vaginal prolapse, abattement (depression), dehydration, and self-mutilation.
How long was Riya left unattended?
Mme N. testified that she left Riya unattended for 19 hours on April 8, 2023.
What is the SPA requesting in terms of damages?
The SPA is requesting €2,000 in damages for the prejudice suffered by Riya and a permanent ban on Mme N. owning animals.
As this case progresses, what impact might the outcome have on future animal welfare cases in France?