JILLIAN SANFORD OF VERWOOD CONVICTED OVER CRUELTY TO DOGS IN DORSET

Jillian Sanford, a dog breeder and hoarder residing in Verwood, has been found guilty of severe neglect and cruelty towards eight dogs under her care. The conviction stems from her failure to provide proper veterinary attention and adequate care for her animals, which included breeds such as whippets and English setters. Sanford, born around 1948 and living at Oaklands Close in Verwood, was involved in breeding under the name Erinnis.

Her neglect was particularly evident in the case of an English setter named Star, for which she admitted to causing unnecessary suffering by neglecting to seek appropriate treatment for an entrapped claw. This neglect was not an isolated incident but part of a prolonged period during which her dogs suffered from various health issues. Sanford also failed to address the health problems of her seven whippets, which included chronic eye conditions and advanced dental disease. Witnesses and rescue reports indicated that at least one of the dogs was found to be extremely thin at the time of rescue, highlighting the severity of the neglect.

The investigation into Sanford’s care practices took considerable time to develop, as authorities worked to gather sufficient evidence to build a strong case against her. The prolonged period of abuse and neglect underscored the seriousness of her actions and the need for legal intervention.

In her sentencing, Sanford was ordered to pay a total of £1,180, which covered fines, costs, and charges related to her case. All eight dogs were confiscated and handed over to the RSPCA for rehabilitation and rehoming efforts. Additionally, Sanford received a ban from keeping any animals for a period of five years, a restriction that will remain in effect until November 2024. This case has drawn attention from local media outlets such as the Bournemouth Echo and Dorset Echo, emphasizing the importance of animal welfare and the consequences of neglecting responsible pet ownership.