PAUL AND STEVEN THOMAS FROM PONTLOTTYN SENTENCED FOR CRUELTY TO WHIPPET SANDY

Paul Thomas, born around 1970, and his son Steven Andrew Thomas, born approximately in 1990, both residents of River Road, Pontlottyn, faced serious allegations of animal neglect that culminated in their pet dog, Sandy, suffering a tragic and preventable demise. The case drew significant attention from animal welfare authorities after the RSPCA Cymru intervened at their property in October 2016, uncovering a heartbreaking scene of neglect that ultimately led to the euthanasia of the dog.

According to reports, Sandy, a whippet, was found in an extremely poor state. The dog was severely underweight, with his hips and spine prominently visible, indicating prolonged malnutrition. His body bore open, sore wounds, and his ears were infected with disease, further evidence of neglect. Additionally, Sandy was infested with fleas, a condition that the owners failed to address despite evident signs of discomfort and suffering.

The RSPCA inspector, Izzi Hignell, described her shock upon arriving at the property. She stated, “When I arrived at the property and saw poor Sandy, I was told the dog had not been to the vets for many, many years — which shocked me, given his condition.” She detailed the dog's dire state, emphasizing how worryingly thin Sandy was, with his hips and spine clearly protruding through his skin. The open wounds on his body were described as exceptionally sore, highlighting the severity of his suffering.

Veterinary advice was sought after the inspection, and tragically, it was determined that Sandy’s condition was beyond recovery. The decision was made to humanely euthanize him to alleviate his pain and suffering. Inspector Hignell expressed her dismay at the outcome, remarking, “Unfortunately, on veterinary advice, Sandy had to be put to sleep — which highlights the truly shocking state the poor dog was in.”

The case against Paul and Steven Thomas resulted in legal consequences. They were sentenced to a 12-week curfew and ordered to pay fines totaling £235 each. Furthermore, they received a five-year ban from keeping animals, a restriction that was in effect until March 2022. The authorities emphasized that their failure to properly care for Sandy was a clear example of neglect that led to unnecessary suffering and ultimately, his death.

This case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of responsible pet ownership and the devastating consequences that neglect can have on innocent animals. The tragic story of Sandy from Pontlottyn underscores the critical need for vigilance and compassion in caring for animals, and the legal repercussions faced by those who fail in their duties.