CONVICTED (2016) | Christine Bowe, born c. 1960, of 7 Low Lane, Calne SN11 8EQ- neglected her five Jack Russells by keeping them muzzled for long periods. Christine Bowe kept her five Jack Russells muzzled for extended periods, causing them discomfort and distress. Bowe admitted she had caused unnecessary suffering to one of the dogs known as Piglet and failing to meet the needs of her other dogs called Milo, Rosie, Muffy and Mr Blobby through the misuse of muzzles and failing to provide them with a suitable environment to live. Bowe’s property was cluttered and chaotic. RSPCA inspector Miranda Albinson told the court that the animal protection charity was first alerted to the dogs after one had been found wandering the streets wearing a muzzle. After a Facebook post reunited Bowe with her dog, inspectors visited the property and found evidence that the dogs had been forced to wear muzzles for long periods of time. They also discovered a gosling with an untreated broken beak. She said: “Muzzles are not an appropriate solution to stop dogs from barking or from causing destruction in the home. Anyone concerned about their dogs displaying unwanted behaviour should seek specialist help. “Any muzzle must be properly fitted to ensure they do not cause injury, pain or distress and needs to allow a dog to undertake normal activities such as panting, breathing, vomiting and drinking.” Sentence: total fine/costs of £200. Banned from keeping dogs for five years (expired 2021). Gazette & Herald