(Image: RSPCA Cymru)
Last Updated: 3 minutes ago
A woman has been prohibited from owning any animals for two years after leaving two dogs and a cat without food or water at a house in Llanrumney.
Shakira Perry, of Honiton Road, admitted an offence under the Animal Welfare Act 2006 for failing to provide for the welfare of two French Bulldogs and a cat.
The investigation
The RSPCA launched an inquiry after concerns were raised about animals left inside a property on Honiton Road. Inspector Sophie Daniels visited the address on March 12, 2025, after tape seals placed on the door as part of the charity’s abandonment procedure had remained untouched for several days.
A long-haired tabby and white cat approached her outside the property “crying” and followed her to the front door. Peering through a gap in the curtains, Inspector Daniels spotted a tan French Bulldog inside the house.
“The dog appeared lean around the chest area that I could see,” she said.
On a later visit, the dog’s ribs were clearly visible. With no response from the owner, South Wales Police officers forced entry to the property.
What officers found inside
Two French Bulldog-type dogs – a tan male and a black-and-tan female – were discovered inside, both underweight. There was no food or water anywhere in the house.
Inspector Daniels said: “The tan dog was thin with ribs, hips and spine visible. The second dog was also thin and had an odd gait when walking.”
All three animals were removed and placed into RSPCA care. Staff at the RSPCA Merthyr Tydfil Veterinary Surgery reported the dogs were “very keen to eat” and the cat repeatedly drank water when offered.
Sentencing
Perry appeared at Cardiff Magistrates’ Court on Thursday, March 5, where she pleaded guilty. She received a four-week custodial sentence, suspended for two years, alongside a two-year ban on keeping all animals.
The court also imposed a Building Choices Programme requirement, 10 days of rehabilitation activity, and a nine-month alcohol treatment requirement. She was ordered to pay £400 in costs and a £154 victim surcharge.
In mitigation, the court heard Perry had apologised and had been dealing with bereavements and personal issues.
RSPCA response
Following sentencing, Inspector Daniels said: “All animals deserve to be treated with kindness and should have their needs met.
“Thankfully both dogs made an improvement in their body condition and all three have been doing well in our care.”
