MARION MERRIMAN FROM RUGBY SENTENCED FOR CRUELTY TO RABBITS IN FILTHY CONDITIONS

In August 2024, authorities uncovered a disturbing case of animal neglect involving Marion Merriman, a resident of Rugby, who was found to be keeping six rabbits in deplorable conditions at his residence on 17 Bond Street, Rugby CV21 2DA. The rabbits were discovered in a state of severe neglect, living amidst filth and suffering from a lack of basic necessities such as adequate food, clean water, proper ventilation, and suitable bedding.

Following the seizure, the rabbits were transported to the RSPCA Birmingham Animal Hospital for thorough examination and assessment. The veterinary report, which was subsequently presented in court, painted a grim picture of their health and living environment. All six rabbits were described as either underweight or very underweight, with some exhibiting urine and faecal staining on their feet, clearly indicating prolonged neglect and poor hygiene.

The report detailed that upon arrival, none of the rabbits had access to food or water, leaving them hungry and dehydrated. Fortunately, after being provided with proper nutrition and care, all but one of the rabbits gained a healthy amount of weight in a short period. However, the report emphasized that their poor physical condition was the result of at least two to three weeks of insufficient care, during which they endured hunger and thirst due to the inadequate provision of sustenance.

The rabbits were housed in small wooden hutches located inside a shed on Merriman’s property. The conditions inside the shed were described as poor, with the air quality being notably bad due to a lack of ventilation. The hutches themselves were found to be filthy, containing large amounts of faecal matter, and the small amount of wood shavings used as bedding was both dirty and wet in places, soaked with urine. The report explicitly stated that wood shavings are wholly inadequate as bedding for rabbits, further highlighting the neglect.

One of the rabbits was found to have an obvious head tilt, a sign of neurological distress, and was euthanized due to an uncertain prognosis. The remaining rabbits were taken to the RSPCA Birmingham Animal Centre, where they are now awaiting rehoming efforts.

Following the court proceedings, RSPCA Inspector Jon Ratcliffe issued a statement condemning Merriman’s actions. He emphasized that it is the legal obligation of animal owners to ensure proper care and welfare for their animals. Inspector Ratcliffe expressed concern over the conditions in which the rabbits were kept, stating, “These poor rabbits were found in wholly unsuitable conditions and did not have their needs met in several ways. For those who find themselves struggling, there are many reputable animal welfare charities who can offer help and advice, and we encourage anybody in a difficult situation to seek support.”

In sentencing, Merriman received a 12-month community order, which includes 20 days of rehabilitation and 150 hours of unpaid work. He was also ordered to pay costs amounting to £350 and a victim surcharge of £114. Additionally, Merriman was disqualified from owning or keeping any animals for a period of ten years, a ban that will expire in May 2035.