CHERYL WELCH FROM HAVANT ESCAPES BAN AFTER NEGLECTING ELDERLY SHIH TZU

Cheryl Welch, born on August 8, 1978, and residing at Purbrook Way in Havant PO9 3SG, found herself in court after a series of neglectful actions towards her elderly pet dog, Tam. Despite the evident suffering caused to the ten-year-old shih tzu, Welch was not disqualified from owning animals. Magistrate Jennifer Duddridge allowed her to retain her cats, birds, and another dog, citing a lack of evidence of neglect towards these other animals and emphasizing the importance of the pets to Welch’s children.

Welch admitted to causing unnecessary suffering to Tam and failing to protect her from pain, injury, and disease. The court heard that her neglect had led to Tam’s fur becoming severely matted, which ultimately damaged her eyes, rendering her unable to see. The dog had been rescued by Welch, who took her in as a rescue animal, but her condition deteriorated over time due to poor husbandry.

The situation came to light after a member of the public reported the dog to the RSPCA following a near-miss incident where Tam ran into the road and was almost hit by a vehicle. The driver, shocked by Tam’s matted fur and the state of her eyes, called the RSPCA for assistance. An inspection revealed that Tam was suffering from a combination of neglect and health issues, including faeces and urine in her fur, which was so severely matted that it caused her significant discomfort and irritation. Additionally, she was suffering from dry eye, a condition that had gone untreated for at least six months.

Sarah Wheadon, representing the RSPCA, explained that Tam’s suffering was evident and that her discomfort was considerable. She stated, “It certainly had been very uncomfortable for Tam and caused a significant degree of irritation.” Wheadon further emphasized that such a severe condition could not have gone unnoticed by her owner, especially given the foul smell emanating from her.

Following the investigation, Tam was surrendered to the RSPCA for treatment and care. Despite this, Welch was permitted to keep her other pets, including cats, birds, and another dog. The magistrates’ decision was based on the fact that there was no evidence of neglect towards these remaining animals and that Welch’s children loved their pets, which was considered an important factor.

In terms of sentencing, Welch received a community order that included a 15-day rehabilitation activity requirement. She was also ordered to pay costs and charges totaling £160. Importantly, she was not given a ban on owning animals, a decision that drew some criticism but was ultimately upheld by the court.