DANIEL MCCLOUD FROM TODMORDEN FACES COURT OVER DOG ABUSE AND NEGLECT IN DIRTY BACKYARD

Daniel Jason McCloud, born on July 18, 1994, and residing at 5 Bankside, Todmorden OL14 6LF, was found guilty in court of two serious animal welfare offences. The case revealed a disturbing pattern of prolonged neglect and suffering inflicted upon his three dogs, which included two Staffordshire bull terrier-type dogs named Elvis and Banksy, as well as Panda, a crossbreed. These animals were kept in a filthy backyard environment for extended periods, exposed to all weather conditions, with little to no proper care or attention.

Residents living nearby frequently reported hearing and witnessing the dogs engaging in violent fights with each other. One local observer described how they could hear the distressed sounds of barking, howling, and high-pitched squealing emanating from the property. Another witness noted that the dogs would bark and howl continuously throughout the day, creating a persistent disturbance. The yard was described as covered in excrement, often soiled with waste that it could be smelled from the nearby side road, indicating the neglect and poor hygiene conditions the animals endured.

During the court proceedings, RSPCA Inspector Demi Hodby, who led the investigation into the case, recounted her visit to the property following reports of dogs fighting. She explained, “I received a call from our National Control Centre to attend an emergency incident where it was said there were dogs fighting. It wasn’t difficult to locate the address as I could hear the dogs fighting from down the road. The noises I could hear were horrific. It consisted of barking and loud high-pitched squealing and yelping.”

Upon arrival, Inspector Hodby observed that Elvis and Panda were covered in blood, and she expressed concern that if the dogs were not separated immediately, they risked causing each other even more severe injuries. She feared for Panda’s life in particular. She called for police assistance, who used bolt cutters to gain access to the yard. Further police officers had to intervene when McCloud became aggressive, but ultimately, the dogs were rescued and taken to safety with the help of law enforcement.

Veterinary examination at the Greater Manchester Animal Hospital revealed the extent of the dogs’ suffering. Panda’s claws were worn down, indicating she had been in contact with hard ground, and her nails were bleeding. Her coat was heavily soiled with mud, and she had a graze on her right shoulder. Banksy, who was pregnant at the time of rescue, had a small bite wound, and Elvis required sedation before his wounds could be properly examined. All three dogs received immediate medical treatment, including wound care, vaccinations, and flea treatment.

It was also noted that Banksy had recently given birth to puppies, all of whom have since been adopted into loving homes. The case highlighted the neglectful conditions in which the animals had been kept and the suffering they endured under McCloud’s care.

In mitigation, McCloud’s legal representatives stated that at the time of the offences, he was suffering from depression and acknowledged that he had not been able to properly care for the dogs. The court sentenced him to a 12-month community order, which includes 120 hours of unpaid work and 20 days of Rehabilitation Activity Requirement. Additionally, McCloud was ordered to pay a total of £395 in fines and costs. As part of the sentence, he received a 10-year ban from keeping all animals, a disqualification that can be appealed after three years.