ASHLEY GRAVELING FROM BRAUNSTONE FACES SUSPENDED JAIL FOR NEGLECTING CAT WITH SKIN DISEASE

Ashley Graveling, born around 1996 and residing on Herle Avenue in Braunstone, Leicester, has been found guilty of neglecting a pet, specifically a cat named Dolly, who was suffering from a severe untreated skin condition.

Concerns about Graveling’s animal care practices first emerged when the RSPCA inspectors received reports indicating that his numerous pets might be living in poor conditions. These concerns prompted multiple visits by the animal welfare organization between August and September 2023, during which inspectors observed signs that the animals, particularly Dolly, were not receiving proper care.

Despite the repeated advice and guidance provided by the inspectors, Graveling failed to take the necessary steps to address the health issues of Dolly. The cat was found to be suffering from crusting lesions and scabs on her skin, which posed a significant risk of infection. Veterinary examinations revealed that Dolly was markedly underweight, a condition attributed to an inadequate diet that left her hungry and lacking in energy. The neglect had resulted in her physical deterioration, with her energy levels severely diminished and her overall health compromised.

In response to the ongoing concerns, the RSPCA intervened and removed Dolly from Graveling’s care. Alongside Dolly, an unnamed rabbit was also taken into protective custody. Both animals are reported to be now in good health, receiving the appropriate care they need.

Graveling later admitted that his mental health struggles had affected his ability to properly care for Dolly and the rabbit. However, he acknowledged that he should have sought help rather than neglect his pets. His failure to act on the advice given by animal welfare professionals led to charges under the Animal Welfare Act, specifically for causing unnecessary suffering to Dolly.

On May 22, 2024, Graveling appeared before Leicester Magistrates’ Court, where he pleaded guilty to the charges. He admitted to neglecting Dolly’s skin condition and failing to address her weight loss and poor overall health.

Following the case, RSPCA Inspector Herchy Boal issued a statement emphasizing the importance of seeking help when struggling to care for animals. He stated, “The RSPCA had tried to help this defendant on a number of occasions – but he did not take our offer of support. The RSPCA urges anyone struggling to take care of their animal to ask for help and act on advice, rather than neglecting them and leaving them to suffer.”

As part of the court’s ruling, Graveling was sentenced to an eight-week jail term, which was suspended for 18 months. Additionally, he was ordered to pay £150 in costs and a £154 victim surcharge. He was also disqualified from keeping any animals for a period of five years, a ban that will expire in May 2029. This case highlights the ongoing importance of animal welfare and the need for responsible pet ownership, especially in communities like Braunstone where such neglect can occur.