Owner banned from keeping animals after leaving dog suffering for three months

UNITED KINGDOM -- The owner of a dog which was left suffering for three months from a chronic skin disease which caused its paws to swell up and bleed, has been banned from owning any animals for five years.

Paul Edwards, of Pilton Close, Rectory Farm, Northampton, pleaded guilty to causing unnecessary suffering to Rocky, a five-year-old bearded collie by failing to provide any veterinary treatment.

Northampton Magistrates’ Court heard on Monday that RSPCA inspector, Polly Underwood, went to Edwards’ house on April 3.

Kevin McCole, prosecuting for the RSPCA, said Ms Underwood detected a “putrid” smell before she even saw the dog in the kitchen.

Mr McCole said: “All four of the dog’s feet were red raw 
and swollen.  There were evident scabs underneath his chin and lower limbs.  There was yellowing and signs of bleeding on all four of its legs.”

Mr McCole said the RSPCA inspector noticed the animal was struggling to walk and a large amount of blood was pouring from its feet as it moved.

Rocky was examined by a vet and was found to be suffering from a chronic skin condition and was severely underweight. The dog was also suffering from a flea infestation.

The dog was given treatment for a skin infection and responded well.

But sadly, Rocky was found to be suffering from cancer and later had to be put down.

Mr McCole said the vet who treated Rocky said the dog was caused unnecessary suffering as a result of the failure to get treatment for the skin condition.

During an interview with the RSPCA, Edwards, an unemployed father-of-four, said he had not taken
Rocky to a vet as he was worried about the cost of treatment for the animal.

Edwards must complete 120 hours of unpaid work and pay costs of £250 and a victim surcharge of £60.

(Northampton Chronicle - Nov 2, 2013)