ALAN NOBLE FROM SOUTHWICK SHOCKS ANIMAL LOVERS WITH CRUELTY CASE INVOLVING DOGUES DE BORDEAUX IN SUNDERLAND

In a disturbing case that has shocked the local community of Southwick and the wider Sunderland area, Alan Noble, born on September 20, 1983, and residing on Trinity Street in Southwick, was found guilty of neglecting two rescue dogs, Ruby and Hooch, both of the Dogues de Bordeaux breed. The incident highlights a grave failure in animal welfare, with Noble accused of leaving the dogs exposed to harsh winter conditions without adequate shelter or water.

According to reports, Noble had initially rescued Ruby and Hooch from a shelter, intending to give them a new home. However, instead of providing proper care, he left the dogs outside in the cold, neglecting their basic needs. The dogs were found in a state of poor health, with visible signs of malnutrition and neglect. Ruby, in particular, was suffering from dehydration, skin issues, and an eye condition that required urgent veterinary attention.

The case came to light after an inspector from the RSPCA responded to an anonymous tip-off. Judith Curry, the prosecutor representing the RSPCA, recounted that the inspector first visited Noble’s residence but was initially refused entry. Nevertheless, she was taken to the back garden, where she observed the two dogs through the fence. Both animals appeared alert but were in a lean condition, indicating malnutrition. Noble claimed that he was in the process of constructing a new kennel and that the back door was kept open to allow the dogs access to the house.

During the inspection, the inspector identified multiple breaches of the Animal Welfare Act. These included the lack of proper shelter, inadequate nutrition, and the absence of bedding. The yard was described as hazardous, cluttered with items that could pose a threat to the animals. Despite being advised on how to improve the conditions, Noble was not present when the inspector returned a few days later. When officers revisited the property on December 20, 2015, Noble was outside and refused to allow access to the dogs, claiming he had no keys and that the gates were padlocked. He also stated that the dogs were aggressive and that he could not show them to the inspectors.

Subsequently, police and RSPCA officials examined the dogs, both of whom exhibited prominent ribs, hips, and spines, signs of severe undernourishment. Ruby was particularly lethargic, prompting immediate veterinary intervention. The inspector recommended that the dogs be taken for medical treatment, and Noble signed them over to the RSPCA. Hooch, although underweight, did not require treatment and was placed on a special diet. Ruby was hospitalized due to dehydration and skin and eye infections. Fortunately, both dogs have since been rehomed to caring families.

In his defense, Noble claimed that he was feeding the dogs three times daily with three 15kg bags of dried dog food each week and that he had taken in the dogs four months prior, believing his care had improved their health. However, the court found sufficient evidence of neglect and breaches of animal welfare standards.

Alan Noble pleaded guilty to three counts of failing to meet the needs of Ruby and Hooch. These included neglecting their environment by leaving them in hazardous conditions without proper shelter, failing to provide adequate nutrition and fresh water, and neglecting veterinary care for their infections. The court sentenced him to a 12-month community order, which includes a three-month curfew, along with a total of £210 in costs. Importantly, no ban on keeping animals was imposed.

This case underscores the importance of animal welfare and the responsibilities of pet owners, especially those who rescue animals with the intention of providing them a better life. The community of Southwick and Sunderland can only hope that such neglect will serve as a stark reminder of the need for vigilance and compassion towards vulnerable animals.