BRANDA COOPER FROM SEAHAM FACES JUSTICE OVER NEGLECT OF CANCER-AFFLICTED CAT AVA

In a distressing case that highlights the importance of animal welfare and responsible pet ownership, Brenda Cooper, a resident of Seaham, was found guilty of neglecting her pet cat, Ava, who was suffering from a severe and untreated illness. Cooper, born around 1960 and residing on Stanley Street in Seaham with the postcode SR7 0AH, failed to seek veterinary care for her ailing feline, leading to tragic consequences.

According to reports from the RSPCA, inspectors visited Cooper’s home in April of this year after concerns were raised about the condition of her animals. During the inspection, they discovered Ava in a dire state. The cat was suffering from a large, infected tumour in her stomach, which had gone untreated for an extended period. The inspectors noted that Ava had never been taken to a veterinarian despite her obvious suffering. The animal was severely underweight, with her body almost reduced to skin and bones, indicating neglect and a lack of proper care.

Inspector Cathy Maddison, who was involved in the case, described the scene: “When I visited the property in April this year, I found a dog and five cats. One cat – Ava – was in an absolutely shocking condition. She had a very large infected tumour on her stomach which was open and filled with pus. She was also extremely underweight – just skin and bone.”

Recognizing the severity of Ava’s condition, the inspector acted swiftly with the owner’s consent to take the cat to a veterinary clinic. Unfortunately, the prognosis was grim. The tumour was cancerous and inoperable, and Ava’s health was so compromised that the vet made the compassionate decision to euthanise her to prevent further suffering. The veterinarian’s decision was also supported by Cooper, who understood the severity of her pet’s condition.

Inspector Maddison expressed her relief that other animals in Cooper’s care, including a dog named Alfie and four additional cats, were rescued and are now under the protection of the RSPCA. “This was an awful case as there was nothing that could be done for Ava by the time the RSPCA was made aware of the situation. But I’m just thankful that Alfie the dog and the other cats are in our care and they too are no longer at risk of suffering,” she stated.

As a result of her neglect, Brenda Cooper was sentenced to pay a total of £430 in fines, costs, and charges. Additionally, she received a three-year ban on keeping animals, which expired in August 2021. The case underscores the importance of timely veterinary intervention and responsible pet ownership to prevent such tragic outcomes.