ASHLEIGH KELLY FROM CHESTER-LE-STREET SENTENCED FOR CRUELTY TO ELDERLY SHIH-TZUS IN CHESTER-LE-STREET

In a case that has shocked the local community of Chester-le-Street, Ashleigh Kelly, born on September 14, 1984, and residing at 2 Glencoe Avenue, was found guilty of severe neglect and cruelty towards her two elderly Shih-Tzus, Alfie and Lucy. The heartbreaking case came to light after police and RSPCA inspectors intervened to rescue the dogs from her home just before Christmas 2023.

Kelly’s failure to provide proper care for her aging pets was evident through the dogs’ dire physical conditions. Both dogs, aged 16, were severely matted, with overgrown claws, and in a state of extreme emaciation. Lucy, in particular, was unsteady on her feet, unable to walk very far, and had a body condition score of just one out of five, indicating critical undernourishment. Alfie’s mobility was also compromised due to the thick knots of fur covering his body, which hindered his movement.

The police removed the dogs from Kelly’s residence after she repeatedly ignored warnings from the RSPCA to seek veterinary treatment and grooming for her pets. Despite assurances that she would take the dogs to the vet, Kelly failed to do so, prompting authorities to step in. The police and RSPCA welfare staff had visited her home multiple times, with Inspector Rowena Proctor leading the efforts. On December 11, 2023, during her latest visit, Inspector Proctor observed the dogs and expressed grave concern over their health.

In her official statement, Inspector Proctor detailed her findings: Kelly brought the dogs into the living room from the kitchen to show her. She claimed to have cut their fur herself but still needed to address their paws. The inspector immediately noted the dogs’ poor condition, especially Lucy’s. Lucy was extremely thin, with her spine and pelvis bones protruding visibly through her skin, and she appeared weak and unsteady. Alfie was also suffering from matted fur, which hampered his movement.

Inspector Proctor emphasized her concern about the dogs’ health and explained that she wanted to give Kelly another chance, understanding the sentimental value the dogs held for her. However, she insisted that Lucy must see a veterinarian immediately. Kelly refused to take Lucy to the vet at that moment but promised to do so within the week. The inspector strongly advised that Lucy be seen within 24 hours, either that day or the following morning. The discussion also covered the possibility of euthanasia if the vet deemed it necessary, and Kelly assured her she would follow through.

Despite these assurances, no veterinary visits were made, and further warnings were issued. The situation deteriorated, and on December 16, 2023, police seized the dogs and took them to a veterinary clinic for urgent assessment. The vet’s examination revealed Lucy’s severe suffering. She was found to have extensive matting, muscle wastage, dental issues, poor vision, a grade four heart murmur, and prominent ribs, spine, and pelvic bones. Weighing only 5kg, Lucy was in a critical state, with her body condition score at the lowest possible level. The vet concluded that her suffering could have been avoided if Kelly had sought timely veterinary care. Sadly, Lucy was euthanized on veterinary advice, with police approval, to end her pain and suffering.

Alfie’s condition was also dire. His fur was heavily matted, stained with urine and feces, and his movement was slow and stilted. The vet described his condition as a body condition score of three out of nine, indicating undernutrition. Alfie underwent a lengthy grooming process to remove the matted fur, which was done while he was conscious, with regular breaks to ensure his comfort. The vet noted that Alfie’s suffering was likely ongoing for many months due to discomfort from the matted fur and hunger, which could have been prevented with proper care.

During her interview with RSPCA inspectors, Kelly insisted she believed Alfie’s condition was “fine” and denied that either dog was suffering. She was shown a video of Lucy’s overgrown, curled nail, which had snapped due to her matted fur, and claimed she was aware of the problem but unable to cut her nails because Lucy wouldn’t allow it.

In court, Kelly’s defense cited her lack of financial resources and her genuine remorse for the dogs’ suffering. However, the prosecution highlighted her repeated refusal to heed advice and warnings, which ultimately led to the dogs’ tragic conditions. Inspector Proctor expressed her disappointment, stating that Kelly had been given multiple opportunities to act responsibly but failed to do so, leaving the vulnerable elderly dogs to suffer.

Following the sentencing, Kelly received a 36-month conditional discharge, a fine of £200, and a victim surcharge of £26. Additionally, she was disqualified from keeping animals for ten years, a ban set to expire in September 2034. The case has served as a stark reminder of the importance of responsible pet ownership and the devastating consequences of neglecting the welfare of vulnerable animals in Chester-le-Street.