HEATHER GREEN'S HORRIFIC POODLE CRUELTY IN LAUNCESTON REVEALED

In a disturbing case that has shocked the community of Launceston, Heather Patricia Green, born on February 26, 1948, was found guilty of subjecting her animals to severe neglect and suffering. Green, who previously resided on Dockacre Road and later at Bishops Place in Paignton, Devon, was accused of keeping a total of 27 poodles in deplorable conditions within her home, which was described as squalid and overcrowded.

According to the RSPCA inspector Lewis Taylor, the conditions in which the dogs were kept were appalling and caused them significant distress. Inspector Taylor detailed the scene, stating, “These dogs were kept in inadequate conditions and were sadly suffering as a result. We found 21 dogs squashed together in five metal cages with six others running loose in just one room. It was a miserable existence and no way for animals to live.”

He emphasized the importance of responsible animal care, saying, “Anyone caring for animals must be able to meet their needs and provide them with the kind of life they deserve.”

During the court proceedings, Heather Green claimed she loved her animals and insisted she “never deliberately hurt them.” She denied any wrongdoing or neglect, asserting that she believed her care was sufficient and that there was no problem with the animals’ wellbeing. However, evidence presented in court painted a different picture.

Veterinary assessments revealed that several of the poodles were suffering from untreated dental disease, a clear sign of neglect. Additionally, five of the dogs were found to be underweight, indicating malnutrition, while one poodle was obese, suggesting inconsistent or improper feeding practices. Fortunately, the rescued dogs recovered under the care of the RSPCA and are now available for rehoming.

In sentencing, Heather Green received a six-week custodial sentence, which was suspended for twelve months. She was also fined a total of £865 and was banned from keeping dogs for a period of ten years. The case has brought to light the importance of animal welfare and the need for strict oversight to prevent such suffering from occurring again in Launceston and beyond.