MICHAEL AND BEVERLEY RICHARDSON CONVICTED IN LEEDS FOR ANIMAL CRUELTY

Michael Richardson, born on 30 July 1959, and Beverley Ann Richardson, born on 24 October 1964, both residing at Broom Mount, Belle Isle, Leeds LS10 3JR, were convicted in 2019 of cruelty to two dogs and a cat. One dog, Bella, was so neglected that she had to be euthanized.

The couple pleaded guilty to two offences under the Animal Welfare Act 2006. They admitted that between 3 September and 3 October 2018, they caused unnecessary suffering to two West Highland Terrier crossbreed dogs named Bella and Max, by failing to investigate or address their poor physical health. They also neglected a domestic short-haired cat called Scarlett, failing to respond to her health issues.

RSPCA inspector Kris Walker described the condition of the animals: “Both dogs were in a terrible state when I first saw them but poor Bella was the worst and, despite everyone’s best efforts, vets made the difficult decision to put her to sleep to end her suffering.” He added, “The fur around her eyes was matted with yellow discharge and she was unable to open them to see. She had a catalogue of health problems – an ear infection, cystitis, tartar-covered teeth, gingivitis, dehydration, and was underweight with visible bones. Her nails were overgrown, and she was very subdued, which is expected for a dog so ill.”

Bella was hospitalized, and efforts were made to de-matt her eyes; however, it was too painful for her to undergo a general anesthetic. Instead, vets administered pain relief so that her eyes could be gradually shaved over a couple of days. Tests revealed she had advanced conjunctivitis, retinal scars from past ulcers, and her lower eyelids were turned inward, causing dry eye, which was very painful. Additional findings included chronic kidney problems and a liver tumour. Given her severe suffering, Bella was humanely euthanized.

Max, the other dog, was treated for a skin condition, ear infection, conjunctivitis, tartar-covered teeth, and gingivitis. He was also underweight, afflicted with fleas, and had overgrown nails that hindered his walking. After hospitalization and three days of treatment, Max showed significant improvement, with his skin, eyes, and ears nearly returning to normal after eleven days.

Scarlett, the cat, was thin, with fur loss, sores, and scabs across her body, along with thickened intestines possibly due to diarrhea. She received parasite treatment and antibiotics.

In court, Michael Richardson acknowledged he recognized there was a problem with his pets but was unaware of the severity until the RSPCA intervened. Beverley Richardson stated she had no intention of caring for animals in the future due to her ill health. Both expressed remorse.

The court sentenced Michael Richardson to a 12-month community order with 200 hours of unpaid work and 10 rehabilitation days, along with costs of £235. Beverley Richardson received a 12-month community order requiring 10 rehabilitation days, also with costs of £235. Both individuals were disqualified from keeping animals for life. A deprivation order was also made, removing Max and Scarlett from their owners’ custody.

— Yorkshire Evening Post