RAY MAINLAND AND SUE TWEEDIE FROM TELFORD CONVICTED OVER CRUELTY TO 18 DOGS

In a disturbing case that has shocked the community of Telford, Ray Mainland, born around 1952, and his partner Sue Tweedie, born on July 12, 1962, have been found guilty of neglecting and mistreating a total of 18 dogs under their care. The couple, who are known within the local area for their involvement in commercial dog breeding and judging at dog shows, resided at The Banks, St. Georges Road, Donnington, Telford TF2 7NE.

Back in 2020, the RSPCA launched an investigation after concerns were raised about the welfare of the animals kept by Mainland and Tweedie. The organization’s officers visited their property following reports that the conditions in which the dogs were living were extremely poor. The investigation revealed a scene of neglect and unsanitary living conditions that shocked even seasoned inspectors.

During the inspection, RSPCA inspector Kate Parker described the environment as overwhelmingly foul. She recounted that the couple had sought to rehome the dogs in January 2020, which prompted the authorities to intervene. The subsequent visit in February uncovered a distressing sight: heavily soiled blankets outside the property and a dog pen that was also covered in filth. The inspector noted that the front of the house was marred by a thick black substance on the window and door, accompanied by a foul stench emanating from within the premises.

Ms. Parker described the smell as almost unbearable, likening it to a mixture of feces and ammonia, which caused her to feel nauseous. Despite knocking on the door multiple times, she received no response from the occupants. The conditions inside the property were so dire that they prompted further concern about the welfare of the animals.

Following the investigation, an independent veterinary report confirmed that the needs of the dogs were not being met. The report highlighted neglect and poor living conditions that compromised the health and well-being of the animals. As a result, Mainland and Tweedie faced charges under the Animal Welfare Act.

In court, the couple was found guilty of one count related to animal cruelty. They were ordered to pay a total of £1,800 in court costs, along with fines of £200 each. Additionally, they received a lifetime ban on keeping animals, although they are permitted to appeal this decision after 12 months. The court has also granted them a 21-day period to rehome all of their dogs before the ban on keeping animals is fully enforced.

This case has brought to light serious concerns about animal welfare and the importance of proper care and regulation for breeders and dog handlers in the Telford area. The community and animal welfare organizations continue to monitor the situation as the couple works to comply with the court’s orders.