KEITH GRAY OF BIRKENHEAD FACES CRIMINAL CHARGES OVER ABANDONED BULLDOGS IN WIRRAL

In May 2018, authorities responded to disturbing reports concerning the welfare of a bulldog named Ella, residing at the home of Keith Gray on Hoylake Road in Birkenhead, Wirral. The case drew significant attention from local animal welfare agencies and law enforcement after a concerned member of the public contacted the RSPCA to report the apparent neglect of the dog.

Inspector Anthony Joynes was dispatched to Gray’s residence, where he discovered Ella confined within a cage in a room that reeked of infection and neglect. The inspector described the scene as distressing, noting that the dog was in a severely compromised state. Ella’s fur was largely missing, a consequence of a chronic skin condition that had been left untreated for several weeks. The skin disease caused her to itch incessantly, leading to further suffering.

In addition to her skin issues, Ella was suffering from infections in both her ears and eyes. Her eyes were filled with pus, indicating a severe and untreated infection, while her ears showed clear signs of infection as well. The dog was also limping, with an injury to her front leg, which further underscored the extent of her neglect. The inspector observed that Ella was in a poor state of health, struggling to walk and clearly in pain.

It was revealed that Gray had allowed Ella to endure a series of ailments, neglecting her basic needs and failing to seek medical attention despite her deteriorating condition. Fortunately, Ella was taken into the care of the RSPCA and was transferred to Upton Veterinary Surgery, where she received immediate and comprehensive medical treatment. Her recovery process continued at the Wirral and Chester branches of the RSPCA, and she was eventually re-homed. Today, Ella is enjoying a new life in a caring environment, free from the suffering she endured under her previous owner.

Inspector Joynes recounted the distressing scene, stating, “As soon as the door opened at the house, the smell of infection hit me. Ella was confined in a cage and was in a poor state, with most of her fur missing due to the chronic skin disease she had, which caused her to itch constantly. She had both types of mange, which is very unusual. Her eyes were full of pus, and her ears were infected. She was also struggling to walk because of an injured front leg, coming towards me limping. This was a clear case of neglect, with multiple health issues left untreated for weeks. The owner failed in his duty of care on numerous levels, showing no attempt to alleviate her suffering.”

Following the investigation, Keith Gray was brought before Wirral Magistrates Court. He was found guilty of neglecting his dog and was ordered to pay a total of £450 in costs and charges. Additionally, Gray received a ban from keeping any animals for five years, a restriction that will expire in September 2023. The case highlights the importance of animal welfare and the legal consequences of neglecting pets in the Wirral area.