CONVICTED (2021) | Mathew Charles Barlow, born 7 November 1982, and Katarzyna (Kasia) Michalowska, born July 1986, both of 2 Deneside Avenue, Crewe CW1 3ST – let their neglected dog suffer with a severe untreated condition and allowed her to stray. Staffordshire bull terrier Rosie was found straying by a member of the public on July 27, 2021, before a dog warden noticed she had issues with her skin, ears and eyes. The five-year-old was taken to the RSPCA’s Greater Manchester Animal Hospital where she was found to have a skin condition, which caused her to lose fur, as well as an ear infection and an eye condition. Her owners Barlow and Michalowska were tracked down by the RSPCA and, following an investigation, pleaded guilty to two counts of causing unnecessary suffering. An expert vet told the court: “Chronic and severe skin and ear disease of this type can cause suffering in a number of ways. “In these cases the dog is constantly irritated and in an uncomfortable state. This may impact on the animal’s ability to rest and conduct other normal activities. Once the disease reaches this level, particularly of the ears, pain also becomes a feature “It was clear at the initial examination that Rosie had pain within the ear canals. The final way suffering can be manifested is by the chronic burden of inflammation and infection being a drain on the body’s resources reducing the dog’s overall quality of life.” The couple admitted in an interview that they had never taken Rosie to a vet’s even though they had been aware of the skin and ear condition. They had decided to treat her with both non-prescription animal and human products. After the hearing, Inspector Caren Goodman-James said: “Rosie showed clear signs of scratching and rubbing and both were aware of this behaviour but at no point did they register or go to a vet. Her visible reddening of the skin and thickening of her ears was also clear to see. “If pets get obvious skin issues veterinary treatment should be sought immediately so they don’t suffer needlessly. Many vets will offer a payment plan to help spread the cost and there are charities who can help with vet bills. “I am just delighted Rosie is now doing well in the care of RSPCA Southport, Ormskirk and district branch and her fur has grown back – she looks a picture of health. “I am pleased she will be able to find her forever home soon. I would also like to praise the dog warden who rescued Rosie and reported the matter to us.” Sentencing: ordered to pay £300 costs, £120 fine and a £30 victim surcharge. Banned from owning dogs for five years (expires November 2026). CheshireLive