Dog Owner Banned for Life After Neglect Case

A Mountain Ash man has been disqualified from keeping animals for life after his neglected dog was found collapsed with severe skin disease and dry eye condition.

Chris Lee Bufton of Fernhill pleaded guilty at Merthyr Tydfil Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday to two Animal Welfare Act offences concerning his eight-year-old Dachshund cross bull breed, Shiloh.

The court heard Shiloh had 70% fur loss with “crusting on the surface and severe thickening with reddening of the skin” and end-stage dry eye meaning “every blink would have been sore” 😢

Deputy Chief Inspector Gemma Cooper discovered Shiloh collapsed and unable to stand when she responded to the call on 23 September 2024.

“She was collapsed, unable to stand and she had approximately 70 per cent fur loss throughout her body, uncovering thick, pink/red, inflamed skin,” DCI Cooper said. “She had green discharge in both eyes and a heavy flea burden living in the little fur she did have as well as scabbing throughout. Shiloh looked in a dreadful state and my heart really felt for her.”

A vet examination revealed Shiloh’s condition would have taken months to develop and she was immediately put to sleep to prevent further suffering.

The vet stated: “Her entire body apart from an area over the top of her neck and chest was completely bald with crusting on the surface and severe thickening with reddening of the skin especially over all of her legs and around the back end of her body.”

Bufton received 16 weeks imprisonment suspended for 18 months, plus eight weeks concurrent also suspended. He must complete rehabilitation requirements and pay £654 in costs and surcharge.

Following sentencing, DCI Cooper said: “This is a very upsetting case. Shiloh was clearly neglected and suffered for some time. Her skin and poor body condition was clear to see – but to also hear from the vet that every blink would have been sore for her is just heartbreaking. We urge any pet owners who are struggling to please seek help. Don’t bury your head in the sand and leave conditions untreated and for them to become worse.”