Bull Breed Dog Left Untreated as Owners Ignore RSPCA Warnings

A couple from Tonyrefail, Rhondda Cynon Taf, have been sentenced after their dog Athena was left without veterinary care despite having a severe facial swelling.

Julie Knight and Sydney (Jamie) Rees pleaded guilty to causing unnecessary suffering under the Animal Welfare Act at Merthyr Tydfil Magistrates’ Court.

The court heard that RSPCA officers made multiple visits and offered veterinary assistance vouchers, but the dog did not receive treatment for several months. When finally taken to a vet by RSPCA Animal Rescue Officer Lauren Perry, the only option to end Athena’s suffering was euthanasia.

“This is an extremely heartbreaking case. Athena’s owners sadly did not make arrangements for her to visit a vet and her needs were not met which led to her suffering unnecessarily,” said Deputy Chief Inspector Gemma Black.

Both owners received 12-month community orders and were each fined £80, ordered to pay a £114 victim surcharge and £532.50 in costs. They were also disqualified from keeping dogs for two years, with a 14-day grace period to make arrangements for any other dogs in their care before the ban takes effect.

The veterinarian stated Athena had been “actively suffering, likely for an extended period of time to include but not limited to one-two months.” 🌈