DALE OLDFIELD FROM BRIDLINGTON SENTENCED FOR CRUELTY TO DOG IN HORRIFIC CASE
| Red Rose Database
Bridlington Animal Abuser
Dale Oldfield, also known as Dale Weatherill, born on October 25, 1990, and residing on Windsor Crescent in Bridlington, became the focus of a heartbreaking animal cruelty case that drew significant attention from local authorities and animal welfare organizations.
Oldfield’s case centered around his neglect of his pet American bulldog, Taegan, who suffered immensely due to untreated health issues over a prolonged period. The dog was left to endure a severe skin and ear infection that was described as 'chronic' by veterinarians, yet no medical intervention was sought for more than a year.
On May 8, 2019, the RSPCA, acting on a tip-off, intervened and found Taegan in a deplorable state. The dog was seized by police officers and immediately taken to a veterinary clinic for urgent treatment. Despite the efforts of the veterinary staff, Taegan’s condition was so dire that she was eventually euthanized to prevent further suffering.
It was revealed that Oldfield had been advised by a veterinarian a year prior that Taegan required medical attention for her ongoing skin and ear infections. However, he failed to take any action, neglecting her needs and allowing her condition to worsen over time.
Oldfield faced charges under the Animal Welfare Act, specifically for causing unnecessary suffering and for keeping Taegan in unsuitable conditions. He was summoned to appear in court on August 14 but failed to attend, leading to a conviction in his absence. Subsequently, on October 2, 2019, he appeared at Beverley Magistrates Court to face the charges related to his treatment of Taegan.
During the court proceedings, the investigation was led by RSPCA Inspector Claire Mitchell, who provided detailed testimony. She stated, “Mr Oldfield was found guilty of causing unnecessary suffering to Taegan by failing to provide veterinary treatment for the chronic skin disease and ear infection she was suffering from, and for keeping her in unsuitable conditions.”
Inspector Mitchell further explained that Oldfield had claimed to love his dog and insisted he had done his best, citing financial difficulties as the reason for not seeking veterinary care. However, she emphasized that the vet had already advised treatment a year earlier, and neglecting to act on that advice was a serious breach of animal welfare.
She added, “Having a pet is extremely expensive, and people need to consider whether they can afford the associated costs before taking one on. We understand that circumstances can change, and families may struggle financially, but we always encourage owners to seek help rather than leave their pets in pain.”
In a poignant detail, Inspector Mitchell noted that Oldfield had posted a photo of Taegan on Facebook in April 2012, proudly declaring that she would never leave his side, highlighting the emotional bond he claimed to have with her.
Judge’s sentencing reflected the severity of the case. Oldfield was handed a 12-month community order, which includes a 20-day rehabilitation activity requirement and 180 hours of unpaid work. Additionally, he was ordered to pay costs and charges totaling £435. Most notably, he was disqualified from keeping any animals indefinitely, a measure aimed at preventing further neglect.
This case underscores the importance of responsible pet ownership and the devastating consequences of neglect. The authorities and animal welfare groups continue to advocate for awareness and proactive care to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
Oldfield’s case centered around his neglect of his pet American bulldog, Taegan, who suffered immensely due to untreated health issues over a prolonged period. The dog was left to endure a severe skin and ear infection that was described as 'chronic' by veterinarians, yet no medical intervention was sought for more than a year.
On May 8, 2019, the RSPCA, acting on a tip-off, intervened and found Taegan in a deplorable state. The dog was seized by police officers and immediately taken to a veterinary clinic for urgent treatment. Despite the efforts of the veterinary staff, Taegan’s condition was so dire that she was eventually euthanized to prevent further suffering.
It was revealed that Oldfield had been advised by a veterinarian a year prior that Taegan required medical attention for her ongoing skin and ear infections. However, he failed to take any action, neglecting her needs and allowing her condition to worsen over time.
Oldfield faced charges under the Animal Welfare Act, specifically for causing unnecessary suffering and for keeping Taegan in unsuitable conditions. He was summoned to appear in court on August 14 but failed to attend, leading to a conviction in his absence. Subsequently, on October 2, 2019, he appeared at Beverley Magistrates Court to face the charges related to his treatment of Taegan.
During the court proceedings, the investigation was led by RSPCA Inspector Claire Mitchell, who provided detailed testimony. She stated, “Mr Oldfield was found guilty of causing unnecessary suffering to Taegan by failing to provide veterinary treatment for the chronic skin disease and ear infection she was suffering from, and for keeping her in unsuitable conditions.”
Inspector Mitchell further explained that Oldfield had claimed to love his dog and insisted he had done his best, citing financial difficulties as the reason for not seeking veterinary care. However, she emphasized that the vet had already advised treatment a year earlier, and neglecting to act on that advice was a serious breach of animal welfare.
She added, “Having a pet is extremely expensive, and people need to consider whether they can afford the associated costs before taking one on. We understand that circumstances can change, and families may struggle financially, but we always encourage owners to seek help rather than leave their pets in pain.”
In a poignant detail, Inspector Mitchell noted that Oldfield had posted a photo of Taegan on Facebook in April 2012, proudly declaring that she would never leave his side, highlighting the emotional bond he claimed to have with her.
Judge’s sentencing reflected the severity of the case. Oldfield was handed a 12-month community order, which includes a 20-day rehabilitation activity requirement and 180 hours of unpaid work. Additionally, he was ordered to pay costs and charges totaling £435. Most notably, he was disqualified from keeping any animals indefinitely, a measure aimed at preventing further neglect.
This case underscores the importance of responsible pet ownership and the devastating consequences of neglect. The authorities and animal welfare groups continue to advocate for awareness and proactive care to prevent similar tragedies in the future.