CONVICTED (2016) | Nicola Pearce, born c. 1972, and husband Gavin Pearce, born 2 August 1969, of Chestnut Close, Killingworth, Newcastle upon Tyne NE12 6GL – failed to care for their elderly springer spaniel, who had to be put to sleep. Nicola and Gavin Pearce pictured during their 2016 court appearance. The 14-year–old dog, known as Bracken, was found to be underweight, suffering from an eye infection, urinary incontinence and a chronic skin condition. The dog was taken to a vet by the RSPCA and had to be put down. Their elderly dog, Bracken (pictured) had to be euthanised on humane grounds. Nicola Pearce pleaded guilty to two charges of causing unnecessary suffering to the animal, while Gavin Pearce admitted failing to meet the needs of the dog. Denise Jackman, prosecuting for the RSPCA, said an inspector went to the couple’s home on June 13, 2016, and became concerned about Bracken’s condition. She added: “The inspector saw immediately that the dog appeared to be in a thin condition. It had crusty eyes that were weeping and were sore. “Its coat was stained yellow in urine and it appeared very weak.” Gavin Pearce. Picture: Facebook. Bracken was then taken to a vet who concluded the animal had to be put to sleep because he was suffering. Ms Jackman said: “According to the vet’s statement, this was a geriatric Springer Spaniel that was very unwell, weak and lethargic. It weighed only 15.2kg – a normal weight would be about 20kg. Its eyes were crusted with discharge. “Urine passed involuntarily and its skin was severely diseased. Its feet were matted and contaminated. “A urine sample was taken and it showed this dog was sadly suffering from neglect and it needed to be put to sleep. “The suffering was chronic, over a period of many weeks. This was avoidable if care was given to this dog. A responsible owner would provide veterinary care.” Mark Styles, representing the couple, told the court that Gavin Pearce had “noticed the deterioration in Bracken’s health” but failed “to persuade, to convince, his wife to take this dog to a vet”. Speaking for Mrs Pearce, he said she suffered from severe mental health problems and was taking anti-depressants. He added that she “could not face” having Bracken put down due to “her emotional state”. Sentence: 12-month community orders with probation for her and unpaid work for him, fines and costs. Banned from keeping animals for five years (expired October 2021). Chronicle Live