KARL HOBDAY OF CALDICOT SENTENCED FOR CRUELTY TO HIS DOG HOLLY

Karl Mark Hobday, born on June 11, 1970, of 175 Newport Road, Caldicot NP26 4AE, left his pet dog in severe pain for almost two years due to chronic skin disease. Despite the dog's suffering, Hobday failed to seek veterinary treatment for his black Labrador, Holly.

Holly was in such a 'shocking' condition that an RSPCA inspector initially couldn't even identify her breed. Hobday pleaded guilty to an offence under the Animal Welfare Act when he appeared before Newport Magistrates’ Court earlier this week.

The cruelty victim, Holly, has since made an incredible recovery under the care of the RSPCA. Speaking after the case, RSPCA inspector Sophie Daniels said: 'This dog was suffering for many months with chronic conditions which left her skin so raw, sore and thickened. The court heard she had suffered because her owner had not sought veterinary care, which is heartbreaking and means her suffering could have been easily avoided. Initially, it was very difficult to even identify the breed of this black labrador, as the skin was in such shocking condition. Fortunately, Holly has undergone a remarkable, heart-warming transformation in RSPCA care and has been happily rehomed. Her story is an amazing example of why the RSPCA exists.'

Hobday received a 12-month community order, including 100 hours of unpaid work, and was ordered to pay £485 in costs and charges. He was also banned from keeping any animals for five years.