KIRSTY BRADLEY FROM WALSALL LEAVES DOGS TO SUFFER IN HEATWAVE

In a distressing case that highlights neglect and animal cruelty, Kirsty Maxine Bradley, a resident of Walsall, was found guilty of leaving her three dogs in a dire state of suffering during a severe heatwave. Born on August 4, 1990, Bradley, who resides on Edinburgh Avenue in Bentley, Walsall WS2 0JD, abandoned her pets—two French bulldogs named Ola and Missy, along with a crossbreed called Sheba—in the garden of her unoccupied home.

During the height of the scorching weather, Bradley had moved out of her property, leaving the dogs behind without proper care or supervision. The animals were left in the garden, exposed to the relentless sun and soaring temperatures, with no access to food or water. Two of the dogs, Ola and Sheba, were found to be severely emaciated, their bodies weakened by malnutrition and dehydration. The third dog, Missy, was also suffering from the same neglectful conditions.

Fortunately, a vigilant neighbor noticed the dogs' plight and took immediate action by providing water over the fence, which likely prevented a tragic outcome. When veterinary professionals examined the animals following their rescue, they confirmed that all three were suffering from significant malnutrition and dehydration. The vet’s report was unequivocal in its assessment, stating, “This suffering would have been avoided if they had been offered adequate food and water. The dogs were kept in an area of the yard where there was no shade or shelter.”

Given the extreme heat, which saw temperatures reach a record-breaking 40.3°C at Coningsby, Lincolnshire on July 19, 2022, the situation could have been fatal for the dogs if not for the neighbor’s intervention. The veterinary experts described Ola and Sheba as being in an emaciated condition, underscoring the severity of their neglect.

Following the incident, the RSPCA launched an investigation into Bradley’s conduct. The charity received reports expressing concern for the welfare of the dogs, prompting a formal inquiry. During court proceedings, Bradley admitted to causing unnecessary suffering to protected animals by neglecting their basic needs, including access to proper food and fresh water. She also acknowledged failing to take reasonable steps to meet the animals’ needs. These offences occurred between June 26 and July 19, 2022, a period coinciding with the UK’s record-breaking heatwave.

In her defense, Bradley expressed remorse for her actions, explaining that she had been struggling with her mental health at the time. She admitted to leaving the dogs alone at her home while she stayed elsewhere, only returning sporadically to collect clothing. She stated she was sorry and recognized that she should have put measures in place to ensure the dogs’ care in her absence.

The court ordered that the dogs, who have since been under the care of the RSPCA, be signed over to the charity so they can be rehomed and given a fresh start. As part of her sentencing, Bradley received a community order that included 30 days of rehabilitation activities and a 12-week electronic curfew. Additionally, she was ordered to pay costs and surcharges totaling £514. Importantly, she was also handed a ten-year ban on keeping any animals, aiming to prevent similar neglect in the future.