MICHAEL WALKER FROM GATESHEAD SENTENCED FOR CRUELTY TO DOG GIZMO

Michael Walker, a resident of Gateshead, was found guilty in 2023 of neglecting his pet dog, Gizmo, a crossbreed of Shih Tzu and Jack Russell. The case revealed disturbing details about the dog's suffering due to Walker's failure to provide necessary medical care and proper living conditions.

Gizmo was discovered in a deplorable state, covered in crusty skin, scabs, and large patches of fur loss. The dog’s condition was so severe that it was evident he had been suffering from a painful skin ailment for some time. Walker admitted to causing Gizmo unnecessary pain and distress, which led to his disqualification from owning dogs for a period of five years.

The investigation was initiated after RSPCA inspector Lucy Green conducted a follow-up visit to Walker’s residence on January 10, 2023. This visit was prompted by previous advice given to Walker to improve Gizmo’s living environment and to seek veterinary treatment for his skin condition. During the inspection, inspector Green observed Gizmo on a windowsill, from outside the house, and noted the dog's worsening condition since the last visit. The inspector described the dog’s nails as being severely overgrown, curling under his paws and overlapping each other. The fur loss was extensive, affecting Gizmo’s neck, chin, back, and legs, with his skin appearing crusty and scabby.

Inspector Green further reported that Gizmo had been scratching his back on sharp metal under the bed, possibly exacerbating his skin issues. The inspector was shown a nearly full bottle of shampoo and a bottle of prednisolone, a medication prescribed for skin inflammation, dated November 14, 2022, with approximately ten tablets remaining. Contact with the PDSA revealed that Gizmo had only been seen by them on that date, and the medication should have been finished by Christmas, indicating a lack of ongoing veterinary care.

Following the inspection, Walker consented to Gizmo being taken to a veterinary practice in North Tyneside for examination and treatment. The vet’s assessment confirmed Gizmo’s dire condition, diagnosing him with generalized dermatitis, a fractured lower left canine tooth, and acute diarrhea. The vet also assigned Gizmo a body condition score of 2-3 out of 9, suggesting he had not received adequate nutrition for at least six months. The veterinarian’s report emphasized that Gizmo’s suffering was entirely avoidable, stating that it was unlikely he had been provided with a suitable environment or diet to meet his needs, and that he had been left unprotected from pain, suffering, and disease.

During court proceedings, the vet testified that Walker admitted to sometimes forgetting to administer Gizmo’s medication. Walker claimed he was unsure of the correct dosage and, out of concern for overdosing, had not been consistent with the vet’s instructions. Additionally, Walker had previously told an RSPCA officer that a vet had suggested Gizmo’s health issues might have been caused by mites or a grass allergy. On another occasion, a veterinary appointment was canceled because Walker, his wife Lisa Walker, and their two adult children were all struck down with flu, preventing Gizmo from receiving timely treatment.

Inspector Green expressed her relief and hope for Gizmo’s future, stating, “Gizmo is a really sweet-natured little dog who has really come out of his shell in his foster home. He looks unrecognizable now, and I’m really happy that he already has a lovely new home lined up.” She emphasized the importance of timely veterinary intervention, following professional advice, and seeking help if pet owners notice their animals’ conditions worsening.

Walker was ordered to pay costs of £180 and a victim surcharge of £80. Additionally, he received a five-year ban on owning dogs, which will expire in September 2028.