PETE BEWSHER FROM EGREMONT FACES SUSPENDED SENTENCE OVER CRUELTY TO TERRIERS IN GREENYDES

Peter Edward Bewsher, born in July 1989 and residing at Luchana, Greendykes, Egremont CA22 2JS, has been found guilty of neglecting and causing unnecessary suffering to his three terrier dogs. The incident, which drew significant attention from local authorities and animal welfare organizations, involved the dogs suffering severe facial injuries believed to have resulted from encounters with foxes.

On February 14, 2024, police officers in conjunction with RSPCA officials executed a warrant at Bewsher’s property in Egremont. The search uncovered multiple outbuildings and evidence indicating Bewsher’s involvement in field sports activities. During the investigation, three dogs were seized from the premises and taken for veterinary examination. The injuries sustained by the animals were described as 'significant,' with one dog missing all of its lower jaw, another suffering a fresh skin tear extending to the jawbone, and the third displaying facial wounds and signs of infection.

In interviews with law enforcement, Bewsher claimed that the injuries were caused by interactions with foxes. He also stated that he did not believe in veterinary treatment and had been treating the dogs himself, a practice he justified by his upbringing and experience with terriers. Bewsher’s defense attorney, Clive Rees, explained that Bewsher had pleaded guilty at the earliest opportunity and that his actions were consistent with his lifelong self-treatment approach. Rees emphasized that Bewsher had occasionally taken animals to a vet but believed that treatment should be administered later rather than sooner, citing exemptions under the Hunting Act that permit flushing foxes from their dens.

Rees further argued that Bewsher’s involvement with foxes was motivated by a desire to help farmers and gamekeepers combat vermin, not by any intent to harm animals unlawfully. He highlighted Bewsher’s reputation within the community, noting that he was highly regarded for his assistance with pest control and that he worked at Sellafield, a site known for its high safety standards and significant responsibilities. Additionally, Bewsher had voluntarily surrendered his firearms and license, indicating a change in his attitude towards field sports.

Despite his previous contributions to pest control, Bewsher admitted to the court that he would no longer participate in such activities and expressed willingness to be banned from keeping dogs. The court sentenced him to a 12-week custodial sentence, suspended for two years, and ordered him to pay £5,226 in costs to the RSPCA along with a £154 victim surcharge. Furthermore, Bewsher was prohibited from owning or keeping dogs for a period of two years, a ban that will last until November 2026.

This case has raised concerns about animal welfare and the responsibilities of individuals involved in field sports, especially those who self-treat injured animals without seeking professional veterinary care. The incident underscores the importance of proper treatment and the legal obligations to prevent unnecessary suffering of protected animals.