DEAN GLEESON AND RICHARD LONGDEN OF ROTHERHAM CONVICTED OVER DOG'S SUFFERING
| Red Rose Database
Rotherham Animal Abuser
In a distressing case that has drawn significant attention from animal welfare authorities, Dean Gleeson, born around 1975, and Richard Longden, born on June 18, 1989, both residents of Mount Pleasant Road, Masbrough, Rotherham S61 1SB, have been found guilty of neglecting their dog, leading to severe suffering and untreated health issues.
On October 5, 2022, animal rescue officer Liz Braidley visited the couple’s residence after receiving reports of a dog in poor condition. At the door, Missy, a 10-year-old Staffordshire bull terrier cross, was brought out. Liz Braidley described the dog’s condition as alarming, noting extensive fur loss across her body, persistent scratching, and signs of pain and distress.
According to Liz Braidley's statement, Missy’s skin was visibly pink and inflamed, with some areas developing sores and bleeding. The skin appeared thickened in certain regions, and there was a notably strong odor emanating from her. Her nails were also overgrown, indicating neglect of basic grooming. The owners claimed that Missy had last been to the PDSA approximately 18 months to two years prior, though they were uncertain of the exact date. They mentioned using oatmeal shampoo on her skin and obtaining some shampoo from the PDSA, which was given by a friend and not specifically prescribed for Missy.
Despite some slight improvement, the owners admitted they had intended to take her to the veterinarian but had not yet done so. Recognizing the urgency of the situation, Liz Braidley expressed her concern that Missy required immediate veterinary attention. Both Gleeson and Longden agreed to relinquish her into the care of the RSPCA, signing her over for treatment.
Subsequent veterinary examination confirmed that Missy was suffering from a severe, untreated diffuse skin disease. The condition had caused thickening around her face, ears, abdomen, and legs, likely persisting for several months. The inflammation and chronic skin changes indicated a prolonged period of neglect and inadequate care.
Both Dean Gleeson and Richard Longden pleaded guilty to an animal welfare offence, specifically causing unnecessary suffering to Missy. Thanks to the dedicated efforts of staff at the RSPCA’s Chesterfield and North Derbyshire branch, Missy received ongoing medication and care. Her condition improved significantly, and she was eventually adopted into a loving new home.
RSPCA inspector Jennie Ronksley, who led the investigation, emphasized the importance of timely intervention in cases of pet health issues. She stated, “Cases like this highlight the seriousness of what can happen if people fail to take timely and appropriate action when their pet is suffering from a skin condition. It’s not ‘just’ sore skin, it’s a painful medical condition that requires diagnosis and treatment by a veterinary professional.”
Reflecting on Missy’s recovery, Inspector Ronksley added, “Missy was in awful discomfort, but with the right care and support from our Chesterfield and North Derbyshire branch, she made fantastic progress and it’s lovely to see her enjoying life in her later years.”
In sentencing, the court imposed a 12-month community order, which includes 20 days of rehabilitation activity. Gleeson and Longden were also ordered to pay £100 in costs and a £114 victim surcharge. Additionally, they received a five-year ban on keeping animals, which will expire in May 2028, as part of the court’s measures to prevent future neglect.
On October 5, 2022, animal rescue officer Liz Braidley visited the couple’s residence after receiving reports of a dog in poor condition. At the door, Missy, a 10-year-old Staffordshire bull terrier cross, was brought out. Liz Braidley described the dog’s condition as alarming, noting extensive fur loss across her body, persistent scratching, and signs of pain and distress.
According to Liz Braidley's statement, Missy’s skin was visibly pink and inflamed, with some areas developing sores and bleeding. The skin appeared thickened in certain regions, and there was a notably strong odor emanating from her. Her nails were also overgrown, indicating neglect of basic grooming. The owners claimed that Missy had last been to the PDSA approximately 18 months to two years prior, though they were uncertain of the exact date. They mentioned using oatmeal shampoo on her skin and obtaining some shampoo from the PDSA, which was given by a friend and not specifically prescribed for Missy.
Despite some slight improvement, the owners admitted they had intended to take her to the veterinarian but had not yet done so. Recognizing the urgency of the situation, Liz Braidley expressed her concern that Missy required immediate veterinary attention. Both Gleeson and Longden agreed to relinquish her into the care of the RSPCA, signing her over for treatment.
Subsequent veterinary examination confirmed that Missy was suffering from a severe, untreated diffuse skin disease. The condition had caused thickening around her face, ears, abdomen, and legs, likely persisting for several months. The inflammation and chronic skin changes indicated a prolonged period of neglect and inadequate care.
Both Dean Gleeson and Richard Longden pleaded guilty to an animal welfare offence, specifically causing unnecessary suffering to Missy. Thanks to the dedicated efforts of staff at the RSPCA’s Chesterfield and North Derbyshire branch, Missy received ongoing medication and care. Her condition improved significantly, and she was eventually adopted into a loving new home.
RSPCA inspector Jennie Ronksley, who led the investigation, emphasized the importance of timely intervention in cases of pet health issues. She stated, “Cases like this highlight the seriousness of what can happen if people fail to take timely and appropriate action when their pet is suffering from a skin condition. It’s not ‘just’ sore skin, it’s a painful medical condition that requires diagnosis and treatment by a veterinary professional.”
Reflecting on Missy’s recovery, Inspector Ronksley added, “Missy was in awful discomfort, but with the right care and support from our Chesterfield and North Derbyshire branch, she made fantastic progress and it’s lovely to see her enjoying life in her later years.”
In sentencing, the court imposed a 12-month community order, which includes 20 days of rehabilitation activity. Gleeson and Longden were also ordered to pay £100 in costs and a £114 victim surcharge. Additionally, they received a five-year ban on keeping animals, which will expire in May 2028, as part of the court’s measures to prevent future neglect.