GAIL AND NICOLA BRADSHAW FROM LEIGH SENTENCED FOR CRUELTY TO DOGS WITH SEVERE SKIN CONDITIONS

Gail Bradshaw, born on August 27, 1953, and her daughter Nicola Bradshaw, born on August 7, 1988, both residents of Minehead Avenue in Leigh, Wigan, faced serious legal consequences after neglecting their responsibilities towards their pet dogs. The two women were found guilty of failing to seek adequate veterinary care for their West Highland terriers, Poppy and Holly, despite the dogs suffering from chronic and severe skin ailments that led to infections and significant fur loss.

According to reports from the RSPCA, inspector Vicki McDonald described the condition of the dogs as appalling. Poppy, in particular, was found wearing a filthy baby jumper that had become stuck to her weeping skin. The inspector recounted that when veterinary staff attempted to remove the jumper, it adhered tightly to Poppy’s skin around her armpits, chest, and front legs, areas that were visibly inflamed and oozing. The severity of Poppy’s condition was especially distressing, with veterinary evidence indicating that her skin issues had persisted since 2014.

In March 2015, a new treatment plan was initiated for Poppy, and the veterinarian advised that she should be brought back for follow-up within seven to ten days. However, Gail Bradshaw failed to comply with this recommendation, and the necessary follow-up never occurred. Instead, Gail decided to attempt self-treatment by seeking advice from the internet and friends, rather than professional veterinary care. This decision further delayed proper treatment and allowed the condition to worsen.

Holly, the second dog, began exhibiting similar symptoms in early 2017. Despite both dogs being covered by comprehensive Petplan insurance, which could have funded their treatment, neither was taken to a veterinarian for proper diagnosis or care. The inspector McDonald emphasized that the dogs’ skin conditions and fur loss were among the worst she had encountered in her 15-year career, describing their state as “absolutely shocking.”

The court proceedings revealed the profound impact the neglect had on both women. Nicola Bradshaw, in particular, was subjected to online abuse, with one message on Facebook suggesting she should “rot in hell.” The emotional toll of the case was evident, with both women reportedly feeling afraid to go out in public due to the shame and distress caused by their actions.

In sentencing, Gail and Nicola Bradshaw received 12-month community orders and were required to complete 200 hours of unpaid work. Additionally, they were banned from keeping pets for five years, a restriction that will expire in May 2023. The case highlights the importance of responsible pet ownership and the serious consequences of neglecting animals in need.