CHRISTINE HOGAN OF HEYWOOD SENTENCED FOR ANIMAL CRUELTY INVOLVING TINY

Christine Hogan, born around 1983 and residing at 373 Manchester Road, Heywood OL10 2QD, was convicted in 2025 for allowing her dog, Tiny, to suffer in pain due to untreated cancer.

Tiny, a Dogue de Bordeaux, was left without treatment for approximately six months. A veterinarian later confirmed that she would have endured chronic pain up until her death.

The RSPCA prosecuted Hogan after being alerted by a Manchester pet crematorium that Tiny had died in severe pain from an untreated tumor on her back. Inspector Ryan King from the RSPCA attended the scene to examine Tiny's body.

In his statement, Inspector King described the scene: “I could see that the dog appeared to be underweight, the ribs and spine were easily visible. There was a large area missing fur and it appeared to be an open wound. I could smell infection and rotting flesh.”

Hogan admitted that Tiny had cancer when questioned at her home, and Inspector King advised her that potential offences may have been committed, requesting a voluntary interview. Over the following four months, Hogan repeatedly claimed she was unable to attend the interview due to various reasons, prompting authorities to proceed with legal action without her cooperation.

A veterinary report revealed that Hogan was informed of the seriousness of Tiny’s condition six months prior to her death, when she was initially treated with antibiotics, anti-inflammatories, and bandaging. The vet had cautioned that the condition might be cancerous and warned of risks, including pain, sepsis, and internal damage, if treatment was discontinued.

Hogan was given a two-week supply of medication but missed the follow-up appointment and did not respond to two subsequent calls from the veterinary practice.

The veterinarian who examined Tiny’s remains estimated she had been untreated for up to six months and would have experienced ongoing pain during her final days.

Hogan pleaded guilty to causing unnecessary suffering by neglecting her pet’s veterinary needs. After sentencing, Inspector King commented: “This is a very sad case. Tiny would have been in terrible pain over a long period of time. No animal deserves that.”

The court imposed a 12-month community order, including ten days of Rehabilitation Activity Requirement, a fine of £120, and a victim surcharge of £114. Hogan was also banned from keeping all animals for five years, until January 2030.