ALAN WAGSTAFF FROM DINGWALL SHOCKS COMMUNITY AFTER LEAVING DOG IN HOT TRAILER IN DERBYSHIRE

In a disturbing case that has shocked residents of Dingwall and the wider community, Alan Wagstaff, born around 1951 and residing at Burn Place, Dingwall IV15 9NQ, was found guilty of neglecting his pet dog under extreme weather conditions. The incident took place during one of the hottest days of the year, with temperatures soaring to a scorching 31 degrees Celsius on July 23. Despite the intense heat, Wagstaff left his springer spaniel, named Kaffir, confined inside a trailer for nearly a full day, specifically for approximately 23 hours.

Details emerged when police officers patrolling a park in Draycott, Derbyshire, came across the distressed dog. The officers, Community Support Officers Matt Boyer and Karen Pykett, observed Kaffir in a dire state, clearly suffering from the oppressive heat. CCTV footage obtained during the investigation revealed that the dog had been locked inside the trailer for an agonizing 23 hours, with no apparent relief or access to water or fresh air.

Recognizing the severity of the situation, PCSO Boyer and Pykett took immediate action. They forced their way into the trailer to rescue Kaffir, who was visibly struggling and in distress. PCSO Boyer expressed relief and concern, stating, “The dog was clearly struggling in the heat on what was one of the hottest days of the year. We were so pleased we were able to get him out of the trailer to be cared for.”

The case drew significant attention, highlighting issues of animal welfare and neglect. Wagstaff was subsequently brought before the court and sentenced to 120 hours of unpaid work. Additionally, he was ordered to pay £1,585 in costs and was banned from keeping animals for a period of one year. The incident underscores the importance of responsible pet ownership, especially during extreme weather conditions, and serves as a reminder of the legal consequences of neglecting animals in distress.