ASHLIEGH TOLLEY FROM LEIGH SENTENCED AFTER LEAVING SICK DOG TO DIE IN COLD FLAT

In a heartbreaking case that has shocked the community of Leigh, Ashliegh Tolley, born on September 5, 1991, and residing at 82A Richmond Drive, was found guilty of neglecting her severely ill dog, Roo, a Labrador suffering from a large, ulcerated tumour. The incident unfolded when concerned neighbors reported that Tolley’s dog had been left unattended in her flat for several days without proper care or attention.

Local authorities and animal welfare officials responded to these reports, prompting Inspector Emma Dingley to visit the address. Upon knocking on the door, she received no response. Peering through the letterbox, Inspector Dingley was horrified to see Roo collapsed on the hallway floor, surrounded by her own feces. The dog was emaciated, extremely cold, and visibly suffering from a large tumour on her front leg, which measured approximately 12cm by 20cm and was ulcerated, indicating weeks of untreated pain.

Concerned for the dog’s life, Inspector Dingley called the police to gain entry into the flat and facilitate Roo’s rescue. Despite the efforts of veterinary staff at the RSPCA’s Greater Manchester Animal Hospital, Roo’s condition was dire. She was suffering from hypothermia, with her body temperature recorded at just 33.8°C—significantly below the normal 39°C—and was too weak to stand or lift her head. Her veins were collapsed, complicating attempts to administer fluids, which was attributed to dehydration and the cold.

Veterinary examination revealed the extent of her suffering, with the large tumour having caused her significant pain over several weeks. Despite the best efforts of the veterinary team, Roo’s condition continued to decline. Emma Dingley recounted, “Roo was in an awful state when I went to rescue her. She was laid in her own feces and couldn’t stand because she was so weak and in poor health. She was freezing because there was no heating in the flat, so I wrapped her in a blanket and comforted her.”

As she was carried out of the flat, Roo attempted to wag her tail, recognizing the kindness she was receiving. Sadly, her condition was critical, and she refused to eat despite her starvation. The following day, veterinary staff made the difficult decision to euthanize her to end her suffering. Emma expressed her heartbreak, saying, “It was so upsetting for us all — I just take some comfort from the fact she had kind people with her when she died and was not frightened and alone in the flat.”

In sentencing, Ashliegh Tolley received a six-week jail sentence, suspended for 12 months, along with a 20-day rehabilitation activity requirement. She was also ordered to pay £100 in costs and was given a five-year ban on keeping animals, which will expire in March 2025. This case has sparked outrage within the Leigh community and highlights the importance of animal welfare and accountability for neglectful pet owners.