A woman from Manchester has been banned from keeping animals for five years after severe neglect resulted in the death of one of her dogs and left another requiring intensive veterinary care.
Gillian Walton, of Norbet Walk, Manchester, was sentenced at Manchester Magistrates Court on 16 August after pleading guilty to causing unnecessary suffering to two Shih Tzus and failing to meet their welfare needs.
Severe Neglect Leads to Tragic Outcome
The court heard that Walton’s two Shih Tzus, Millie and Cindy, were found in a state of chronic neglect, suffering from severe flea infestations that led to life-threatening anaemia. Millie, one of the dogs, died as a result of the infestation, while Cindy required emergency treatment and rehabilitation to recover from her condition. Both dogs were also found to be in poor bodily condition, with matted coats and skin and eye diseases, and were living in unsanitary conditions.
The neglect extended beyond physical health issues, as the dogs were not walked, inadequately fed, and kept in an environment littered with old and new faeces, rubbish, and a strong smell of ammonia. The RSPCA was alerted to the situation in July 2023 when a report was made expressing concerns about the welfare of the dogs.
Investigation by the RSPCA
RSPCA Animal Rescue Officer Jessica Pierce visited Walton’s residence to carry out a welfare check. Upon entering the property, Pierce found Cindy, the surviving Shih Tzu, in a severely malnourished state with matted fur and prominent ribs, spine, and hip bones. The living conditions were deplorable, with faeces and rubbish scattered throughout the house.
Walton admitted that Millie had already died and was wrapped in a blanket upstairs. Cindy was immediately signed over to the RSPCA and taken to the Greater Manchester Animal Hospital for examination and treatment, while Millie’s body was seized for further investigation.
Veterinary Findings and Legal Consequences
RSPCA Senior Veterinary Clinician Dr Shannon McCall examined both dogs and confirmed that their severe flea infestations had led to significant health issues. Millie’s death was attributed to anaemia caused by the infestation, which had left her weak, lethargic, and in constant discomfort. Dr McCall noted that the lack of veterinary care and the unsuitable living conditions had caused the dogs prolonged suffering.
The court also heard that Walton had failed to comply with the basic code of practice for the welfare of dogs, which outlines the responsibilities of dog owners in providing proper care. Dr McCall estimated that the neglect had persisted for several weeks, if not months.
Cindy has since made a full recovery, achieving a healthy weight and a much-improved coat and skin condition. She has been successfully rehomed by the RSPCA.
Court Ruling and RSPCA’s Appeal
In addition to the five-year ban on keeping animals, Walton received a 16-week prison sentence, suspended for 12 months, and was ordered to complete up to 15 Rehabilitation Activity Requirement (RAR) days. She was also ordered to pay £200 in costs and a Victim Surcharge of £154.
The RSPCA is urging pet owners who are struggling to care for their animals to seek help rather than allow their pets to suffer. The organisation emphasises the importance of seeking veterinary care and maintaining proper living conditions to prevent unnecessary suffering.
