JOHN BAIMBRIDGE FROM STALYBRIDGE SENTENCED FOR ANIMAL NEGLECT

In 2020, John David Baimbridge, born on June 1, 1989, and residing on Grey Street, Stalybridge SK15 2NP, was convicted of neglecting two dogs found underweight and infested with fleas at his family home.

Baimbridge was issued a five-year ban from keeping animals after it was discovered that his pet dogs were suffering from severe flea infestations and signs of neglect. RSPCA inspector Lorna Campbell visited the property he shares with his parents, Judy and Dave Baimbridge, as well as his brother James, and found the dogs in a deplorable state.

The dogs—a red cocker spaniel named Ollie and a German shepherd called Pippa—were scratching intensely due to a severe flea problem. Both animals were critically underweight and exhibited extensive fur loss. Fleas were visibly crawling through Ollie’s fur.

Pippa was experiencing significant pain and was crying; however, Baimbridge had not taken her or Ollie to the veterinarian for four months. Faced with the situation, Baimbridge agreed to surrender the dogs to the RSPCA. They were subsequently taken for urgent veterinary care at Greater Manchester Animal Hospital.

Veterinary assessments revealed that Pippa weighed just 21.5kg, considerably less than the typical weight of approximately 32kg for her breed. Her body condition score was rated as one out of nine, with one indicating severe emaciation. Her ribs, spine, and hip bones were clearly visible. Pippa’s body also showed multiple bald patches caused by a chronic skin condition, likely due to untreated flea infestation.

Ollie’s condition was also concerning; his foot had grown around the paw pad as a result of matted fur. The mats were shaved off, and his claws were trimmed.

Both dogs fully recovered following treatment and have since been re-homed.

Baimbridge admitted to two animal welfare charges at Tameside Magistrates’ Court on January 7, 2020. No charges were filed against other household members.

The court sentenced Baimbridge to a 12-month community order, which included 100 hours of unpaid work. He was also ordered to pay £415 in costs and fines and was banned from owning animals for five years, with the ban set to expire in January 2025.