MICHAEL HOLLAND OF TAUNTON SENTENCED FOR ANIMAL ABUSE

Michael Lee Wayne Holland, born on October 5, 1989, of Outer Circle, Taunton TA1 2BS, was convicted in 2020 for neglecting his female Staffordshire bull terrier, Sky, by leaving her to suffer with severe ulcerated and infected tumours.

Holland admitted to causing unnecessary suffering to Sky by failing to seek veterinary treatment for her condition. The case arose after a concerned member of the public contacted the RSPCA, which prosecuted Holland under the Animal Welfare Act 2006.

RSPCA inspector Marie Griffiths visited Holland’s residence between June 8 and September 10, 2019, to investigate the reports. She described the condition of Sky: “This was the serious neglect of a dog who was clearly in urgent need of veterinary attention. The pictures of the tumour are very graphic and show the condition of Sky when I arrived.”

She continued: “She had two large infected necrotic masses on her right shoulder extending to her neck area, including one which was 12cm in diameter. The masses were seeping pus and fresh blood, and the area was starting to split due to the pressure. The smell was positively overwhelming.”

Sky was euthanized on veterinary advice that same day to prevent further suffering. Holland was sentenced to a 12-week prison sentence, suspended for 12 months, and was ordered to complete 80 hours of unpaid work. He was also ordered to pay a total of £415. Additionally, he is banned from keeping dogs for five years, until January 2025.

This case was reported by SomersetLive.