MARK GOULD FROM BIRMINGHAM CONVICTED FOR HORRIFIC ANIMAL NEGLECT IN YARDLEY

In a disturbing case of animal neglect, Mark Gould, born on February 21, 1979, and residing at 39 Mansfield Road, Yardley, Birmingham B25 8LX, was found guilty of three separate offences related to the welfare of his dogs. The investigation, carried out by the RSPCA, uncovered shocking conditions inside Gould's property, leading to his conviction and subsequent sentencing.

On April 1, 2023, RSPCA Inspector Jon Ratcliffe responded to a call at Gould's residence. Upon arrival, he was met with a distressing scene: three dogs in urgent need of medical attention were discovered within the premises. The animals included a female Cane Corso-type dog named Stella and a male Bull breed dog called Hulk, both found downstairs in the house. Additionally, a female Mastiff-type dog named Lickey was confined to a bedroom, revealing the extent of neglect present in the household.

Inspector Ratcliffe described the deplorable conditions he encountered, stating, "I couldn’t walk without stepping on faeces. There was no food or water available in the bowls, and the only bedding present was soaked through with what I suspect may have been urine." The inspector further detailed the cluttered state of the upstairs rooms, which were strewn with possessions and debris, creating an uninhabitable environment. His attention was drawn to the significant presence of dog faeces in both bedrooms, highlighting the neglect.

In a small front room, Ratcliffe found a third dog—a female, red-colored Mastiff crossbreed—shut inside a confined space. The dog was in a severely poor physical condition, appearing emaciated and terrified. It was attempting to cower between a wooden unit and a pile of car tyres, clearly distressed and in need of urgent care.

Following the discovery, all three dogs were immediately signed over into the care of the RSPCA. They were transported for veterinary treatment, where it was confirmed that Stella and Lickey were severely emaciated. Thanks to the efforts of the charity, all three animals have since recovered and have been rehomed to loving families.

Gould faced sentencing that included a 35-day rehabilitation activity requirement (RAR), a fine of £40, and a victim surcharge of £114. Additionally, he received a five-year disqualification from owning or keeping any animals, a penalty that can be appealed after three years and is set to expire in September 2028. The case underscores the importance of animal welfare laws and the consequences of neglecting the needs of domestic animals, especially in a household that should have provided care and compassion.