LAURA BATTERHAM FROM CHESTERFIELD CONVICTED FOR CRUELTY TO ELDERLY GERMAN SHEPHERD

In a case that has shocked the local community of Chesterfield, Laura Batterham, born on 17 December 1981 and residing at Devonshire Terrace, Holmewood, was found guilty of neglecting her elderly German Shepherd dog, Harley. The incident highlights serious concerns about animal welfare and the responsibilities of pet owners in the area.

According to court records, Batterham failed in her duty to care for Harley, a 14-year-old dog who suffered from severe neglect. She pleaded guilty to causing unnecessary suffering to the animal by neglecting his basic health needs. The charges stemmed from her failure to address Harley’s deteriorating physical condition, which included a poor body state, untreated flea infestation, skin diseases, and ulcerated masses that had developed over time.

Harley’s condition was dire when rescued. The RSPCA took him into their care and dedicated three months to rehabilitating him. During this period, staff worked tirelessly to restore his health and to help him regain trust in humans, which had been severely compromised by his neglect. Animal care manager Gary Taylor described Harley’s initial state as heartbreaking, noting that he was emaciated, with visible vertebrae, taut skin over his ribs, and bald patches across his body. Taylor explained, “When he arrived, you could count each one of his vertebrae from the other side of the room. His skin was taut over his exposed ribs and he was, for the most part, bald. His body was blotchy and raw in places. He staggered and stumbled. His eyes were sunken.”

Despite his suffering, Harley showed resilience. Over the course of his recovery, he gradually regained strength and began to trust humans again, thanks to the dedicated efforts of the RSPCA staff. Taylor added, “He was at his lowest ebb but he remained strong. And he’s come on so much since.”

In court, Batterham was sentenced to a community order, which included a six-week curfew. She was also ordered to pay £385 in costs and charges related to the case. Additionally, she received a ban from keeping dogs for a period of 12 months, which expired in July 2020. The case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of responsible pet ownership and the consequences of neglecting vulnerable animals in the Chesterfield area.