Hull man banned for neglecting German shepherd to the point of cruelty

HULL MAN BANNED FOR NEGLECTING GERMAN SHEPHERD TO THE POINT OF CRUELTY

A man has been banned from keeping animals for life after he failed to take his puppy to the vets, leaving it looking like a "hyena".

Paul Crooke, aged 61, from Axminster Close, Hull, admitted to causing his German shepherd, Simba, unnecessary suffering by neglecting to investigate its serious health issues.

The 10-month-old dog had lost weight, suffered from a skin disease, conjunctivitis, and fleas.

Despite receiving treatment, additional problems were discovered, and Simba was eventually euthanised, according to the RSPCA.

During a hearing at Hull Magistrates' Court, Crooke was sentenced to 18 weeks in jail, suspended for 18 months.

He was also ordered to pay £400 in costs, a £154 victim surcharge, and to complete 15 days of rehabilitation.

Animal rescue officer Mollie Masters visited Crooke’s home in November last year following reports of a 'skinny' dog.

She described Simba as having "red raw" skin with scabs, pus coming from his eyes, and visible hip bones and ribs.

A vet stated that Simba’s fur was almost entirely absent, with infected skin so severe he might have been mistaken for a hyena in a zoo.

Simba’s claws were overgrown, indicating he hadn’t been walked outside for a long period, and the vet mentioned that the dog had suffered for at least eight weeks.

Crooke refused to consent to surrender Simba to the RSPCA, claiming that his sister had bought him the dog for £900.

In mitigation, he was described as an 'inexperienced pet owner' who had 'overestimated his own abilities' and was going through personal trauma after losing his partner, while caring for his 13-year-old son.

RSPCA inspector Dan Richardson emphasized the importance of seeking proper veterinary care regardless of financial constraints, highlighting that animals in illness require appropriate treatment.