CONVICTED (2019) | Edward Shere, born c. 1989, of Gingerland Livery Yard, Gingerland Farm, Colebrooke Lane, Cullompton EX15 1PD – shot a pet pig three times before dragging him, still alive, onto a trailer with a winch Callous Edward Shere caused pet pig Ivor tremendous suffering in his final moments Shere, a former stocksman with the Portman Hunt, had denied harming the pig but was found guilty of causing him unnecessary suffering. RSPCA officials said Shere was contacted on the hunt’s emergency line by Ivor’s owner. The owner asked Shere to humanely destroy the pet pig at a smallholding. Vets had advised the animal be euthanised. However, the defendant used an ‘incorrect weapon’ and failed to properly and humanely euthanise Ivor, who weighed 340 kilograms. Shere then winched the much-loved family pet onto a trailer while he still alive in front of his owners, who had gathered to say their final goodbyes. RSPCA chief inspector Mike Butcher, who investigated for the animal welfare charity, said: “It’s essential all animals are treated in a way which safeguards their welfare at all times, throughout their entire life. “Many animals have their lives ended due to being put down as a result of illness, age or infirmity. “At this upsetting final stage of an animal’s life, owners place their full trust in those employed to humanely put animals to sleep to do so competently and without causing the type of suffering Ivor sadly experienced.” Sentencing | disqualified for transporting (but not keeping) animals for three years. 120 hours of unpaid work; £750 fine. Bournemouth Echo