LINDSEY TWEDDLE ABANDONS DOGS IN HORRIFIC CONDITIONS IN BLYTH, NORTHUMBERLAND

Lindsay Kate Tweddle, born around 1979, previously residing on Delaval Crescent in Blyth and now living on Holystone Avenue in Blyth, was found responsible for neglecting and abandoning her two Shih-Tzu dogs, Mishka and Lexi. The animals were discovered in a deplorable state within an abandoned house, which was heavily contaminated with faeces, urine, and an overwhelming amount of clutter, indicating that the property had been uninhabited for several weeks.

The conditions in which the dogs were kept were nothing short of shocking. Animal welfare officers from Northumberland County Council, upon entering the property, described the scene as distressing and appalling. Mishka and Lexi were found in a hallway between the kitchen and living room, with access only to a bathroom. The dogs were terrified, severely underweight, and covered in matted fur that had taken on a thick, muggy brown hue. Their ribs, spines, and hip bones were clearly visible, highlighting the extent of their malnutrition. One of the dogs weighed just 6.14 kilograms, while the other was only 4.4 kilograms, far below healthy standards for their breed.

Both animals were infested with fleas and had a significant number of worms, indicating prolonged neglect. Their only source of water was a bucket filled with foul, brown water, and their diet consisted solely of stale cat biscuits, which provided minimal nutrition. The overpowering smell of urine and faeces permeated the property, further emphasizing the neglect and poor living conditions.

Following their rescue, Mishka and Lexi were taken to St Clair Veterinary Care on Croft Road in Blyth for a thorough health assessment. The veterinary team bathed the dogs and shaved out the heavy matting from their coats. The vet report confirmed the severity of their condition, noting the fleas and worms, and underscoring the urgent need for medical treatment.

Subsequently, the dogs were transferred to Berwick Animal Rescue Kennels, where they received care and treatment to recover from their ordeal. Thanks to the dedicated efforts of the rescue staff, Mishka and Lexi gradually regained their health and strength. They have since been rehomed and are now living happily in loving environments, far from the neglect they endured.

In court, Lindsay Tweddle was prosecuted by Northumberland County Council for her role in this case of animal cruelty. She was sentenced to an eight-week custodial sentence, which was suspended for 12 months, along with a curfew order and a total of £667 in costs. Importantly, she was banned from owning or participating in the keeping of dogs for five years, a restriction that will expire in May 2023.

Despite her apparent disregard for her animals’ welfare, Tweddle’s punishment was relatively lenient. Her case drew attention to the ongoing issue of animal neglect in the region, and the importance of vigilant enforcement of animal welfare laws. The case serves as a stark reminder of the cruelty that can occur behind closed doors and the critical role of authorities in protecting vulnerable animals from such suffering.