DAVID FARRIMOND'S HORRIFIC CRUELTY IN INCE-IN-MAKERFIELD: PET DOG SUFFERS IN WIGAN

In a disturbing case of animal neglect, David Farrimond, born on May 27, 1977, and residing at 4 Chatsworth Avenue, Ince, Wigan WN3 4PJ, was found guilty of failing to care for his dog, leading to severe suffering and neglect. The case highlights the tragic consequences of neglecting a loyal pet, specifically a springer spaniel named Bella, who endured a prolonged period of pain and malnutrition while left alone in an abandoned house in Ince-in-Makerfield.

Farrimond's neglect was evident in the state of Bella’s health, which had deteriorated drastically due to his failure to seek veterinary treatment. The dog was suffering from extreme weight loss, an eye infection, and a large mammary tumour. Despite her suffering, Farrimond did not take any action to alleviate her condition, leaving her to endure her pain in isolation. The RSPCA’s intervention was prompted after a welfare check was initiated following reports of concern about the dog’s condition at Farrimond’s residence.

In February 2023, RSPCA inspector Rachel Whalley responded to the call and visited the property in Wigan. The house was unoccupied and in a state of disrepair, with a strong smell of ammonia permeating the air. Through a small gap in the curtains, Inspector Whalley could see Bella lying motionless inside. Despite loud shouting and banging on the window, the dog did not move, raising immediate concerns about her welfare.

To assess her condition, the inspector managed to slide some dog food through the letterbox, which prompted Bella to get up and approach the front door. Using her phone, Whalley was able to record images and videos of Bella eating ravenously, revealing her emaciated state. Bella’s ribs and spine were prominently visible, and she was visibly shaking. After eating, Bella appeared more alert and climbed onto the window sill, allowing the inspector to observe her full condition.

Inspector Whalley noted that Bella was extremely underweight, with green discharge emanating from both her eyes and her nails overgrown. The dog’s overall condition was dire, and it was clear she had been neglected for some time. The inspector’s concern deepened when she saw no evidence of anyone attending to Bella’s needs. Following discussions with police and local authorities, the inspector gained entry into the property. Inside, the scene was appalling: a strong smell of ammonia, fresh and moldy faeces scattered across the floor, and hazards such as a razor blade among the clutter. During the inspection, Bella’s leg became caught on a metal oven grill, underscoring the unsafe environment she was kept in.

Bella was immediately taken to the RSPCA’s Greater Manchester Animal Hospital for urgent veterinary care. Veterinarian Izabela Gibka examined her and confirmed the severity of her condition. Bella was severely underweight and emaciated, with her ribs, spine, and pelvic bones clearly visible. Muscle loss was evident, especially in her hind limbs, indicating prolonged malnutrition. Her coat was dirty and foul-smelling, and her eyelids were swollen with yellow crusty discharge, suggesting untreated bacterial conjunctivitis. The nervousness she displayed during the eye examination indicated pain and irritation in her eyes.

Further examination revealed a 5cm (2-inch) pendulous tumour on her abdomen, likely linked to her mammary glands. The tumour showed signs of ulceration, with the skin over it tense and beginning to break down, which can cause severe pain and infection if left untreated. Bella’s suffering was believed to have persisted for at least two months, if not longer, due to her untreated conditions. The veterinarian expressed disappointment that her owner, Farrimond, had not sought veterinary help once the growth was noticed, which would have been the responsible action for any reasonable owner.

In addition to her medical issues, Bella’s hygiene was neglected; her coat was unkempt, and her nails had been left untrimmed, further evidence of Farrimond’s failure to provide proper care. During court proceedings, Farrimond pleaded guilty to two offences under the Animal Welfare Act. The court sentenced him to a 12-month community order, which includes 80 hours of unpaid work. He was also ordered to pay costs of £1,015.96 and a victim surcharge of £114. Additionally, Farrimond received a five-year ban on owning any animals, which will expire in October 2028.

This case underscores the importance of responsible pet ownership and the devastating consequences of neglect, especially in cases where animals are left to suffer in silence in abandoned properties in Ince-in-Makerfield, Wigan.