KAYE AND TONY TOOGOOD FROM BRADING SENTENCED FOR CRUELTY TO DOGS ON THE ISLE OF WIGHT

In a case that has shocked the local community of Brading on the Isle of Wight, Kaye Toogood, born on September 20, 1960, and her estranged husband Tony Toogood, born circa 1949, faced justice for their severe neglect of two beloved family dogs. Kaye, whose current address remains unknown, hails from Kyabram but was residing at Station Road, Brading, Sandown, Isle of Wight, with her husband at the time of the incident.

Their two terriers, Daisy and Minnie, suffered from extreme neglect that led to their suffering and eventual rescue. The dogs were found in such a deplorable state that their fur was heavily matted, obscuring their facial features and causing significant health issues. The neglect was so severe that Daisy, the older of the two, was discovered as a stray in June 2016, prompting authorities to investigate the couple’s residence. Upon inspection, Minnie was also found in a similarly neglected condition, suffering from multiple untreated health problems and in considerable pain.

RSPCA inspector Mark Buggie described the distressing scene: “They were covered in matted fur and no oxygen could get to the skin, which meant they developed a skin disease, sores, and eye infections. You couldn’t make out their facial features through the fur. They would have been in pain. It was long-term neglect.”

Both dogs were taken to a veterinary clinic where they received extensive treatment. Minnie, in particular, required eye surgery, but after a lengthy period of care, both dogs eventually recovered from their injuries and health issues.

During the court proceedings at the Isle of Wight Magistrates Court, Tony Toogood admitted to two charges of causing unnecessary suffering to the animals, while Kaye Toogood pleaded guilty to one count. Tony, who was also a councillor with Brading Town Council before resigning, expressed some remorse, stating: “I suppose I did neglect them in the last couple of months but I’ve had trouble at home.”

The court handed down a series of penalties. Tony Toogood received a three-month prison sentence, suspended for 12 months, along with 180 hours of unpaid work and 20 days of rehabilitation activities. Kaye Toogood was given a three-month community order, which included a curfew. Both were fined £500, covering costs and fines. Additionally, both individuals were banned from keeping dogs for life. However, Kaye has the right to appeal after two years, and Tony after five.

The case has highlighted the importance of animal welfare and the consequences of neglect, serving as a stark reminder to the community of Brading and the wider Isle of Wight of the responsibilities that come with pet ownership.