MARK STABLES HORRIFIC ANIMAL CRUELTY IN HASTINGS: DOG LEFT TO SUFFER IN BEAUPORT CARAVAN PARK

In a disturbing case of animal neglect, Mark Stables, a resident of Hastings, has been found guilty of leaving his dog to endure unimaginable suffering, which ultimately led to the animal's death. The incident came to light when the RSPCA responded to reports at Beauport Caravan Park in St Leonards, where they discovered a severely neglected dog named Chase.

Chase, a five-year-old brown Chow dog, was found in a deplorable state. The RSPCA inspectors described the scene as distressing, noting a strong foul smell emanating from the caravan where the dog was kept. Upon entering, inspector Tony Woodley observed Chase lying on the bathroom floor, visibly distressed and unable to stand. The dog was wearing a harness, and it was painfully evident that he was severely underweight, with open sores, fur matted with feces and urine, and signs of underlying anemia.

Stables claimed to the RSPCA that he had only owned Chase for just under a month, from March 12, 2022, to April 8, 2022. However, social media posts from Stables’ former partner dating back to October 2018 showed photos of Chase and another Chow-type dog named Maisey, indicating a longer history of ownership. It was also revealed that Maisey had been rehomed and was reportedly living a happy life elsewhere.

During the inspection, Stables admitted that he had not sought veterinary treatment for Chase, despite the obvious signs of suffering. The veterinarian who examined Chase confirmed that the dog was lethargic, whimpering, and in pain. Sadly, due to the severity of his condition, the veterinary team decided that the only humane course of action was to put Chase to sleep to end his suffering.

Inspector Woodley expressed his outrage at the neglect, stating, “This poor dog had clearly been left to suffer for a number of weeks by his owner. Stables had owned Chase and a second dog, Maisey, for several years. It is heartbreaking that despite the veterinary efforts, Chase’s pain could not be alleviated, and he had to be euthanized.”

He further emphasized the importance of pet owners seeking help if they are unable to care for their animals, warning that neglect only prolongs suffering. “Stables seriously failed in his responsibilities towards the animal,” he added.

In court, Stables was sentenced to 18 weeks in prison, suspended for 12 months. He was also ordered to complete 20 days of rehabilitation activities, perform 200 hours of unpaid work, and pay costs of £300 along with a victim surcharge of £128. Additionally, he received an indefinite ban on keeping animals, a measure aimed at preventing further cruelty.

This case highlights the tragic consequences of neglect and the vital role of animal welfare organizations in protecting vulnerable animals. The community of Hastings and St Leonards is reminded of the importance of responsible pet ownership and the need to act swiftly when witnessing signs of animal abuse.