RAY METCALF AND TRACEY BLEASDALE FROM BIRKENHEAD SENTENCED OVER CRUELTY TO DOGS

In a case that has shocked the local community of Birkenhead, two individuals, Ray Metcalf and the now-deceased Tracey Bleasdale, faced justice after their neglect led to severe suffering for their pet dogs. The incident came to light when concerned members of the public contacted the RSPCA, prompting an investigation into the welfare of two dogs, a Bulldog named Marney and a Shar-Pei called Coco.

According to court proceedings at Wirral Magistrates Court, it was revealed that both dogs had been subjected to prolonged neglect over a period of two years. Marney was found to be suffering from a painful and untreated skin condition. Her fur was notably sparse, and her body was covered in painful scabs, indicating a severe skin ailment that had gone unaddressed. The distress was evident, with sores visible on her body, a result of her scratching herself in an attempt to alleviate the discomfort caused by her condition.

Coco, on the other hand, was discovered to be suffering from multiple health issues, including an eye and ear infection. Additionally, she had an ingrown dew claw that had become infected, causing her significant pain. Despite these evident health problems, neither dog had received any veterinary treatment from their owners, which contributed to their deteriorating health.

Both Metcalf and Bleasdale admitted to causing unnecessary suffering to the animals and neglecting their basic welfare needs over the course of two years. The investigation was led by RSPCA inspector Anthony Joynes, who described the scene upon arrival as heartbreaking. He stated, “When I was first called to investigate, it was heartbreaking to see these two dogs suffering so needlessly. Marney’s skin was red raw and hadn’t been treated, and I could see sores on her body where she’d scratched herself so much to try and relieve the discomfort. Coco’s ingrown dew claw would have been causing her a lot of pain, as well as her ear and eye infection.”

Inspector Joynes emphasized the importance of responsible pet ownership, especially for breeds like Shar-Peis, which are prone to certain health issues. He remarked, “An eyelash condition is not uncommon for Shar-peis and this situation proves just how important it is to do your research when you take on a pet, and how you must be prepared to look after them and provide for them at all costs.”

Following their rescue, the dogs were taken into the care of the RSPCA. While their health improved rapidly under veterinary supervision, Coco was found to have an unrelated malignant tumour. Sadly, the tumour was so severe that Coco had to be humanely euthanized. Inspector Joynes expressed his disappointment, saying, “The tumour was very serious and she quickly deteriorated. I was absolutely gutted as I had hoped to see her in a new home.”

Fortunately, Marney’s prognosis was more hopeful. With her health stabilized, she is now available for rehoming, and inspector Joynes expressed optimism about her future, stating, “Now that the case is over she can be found a loving new home and I’m really looking forward to seeing her enjoying a new life soon.”

In terms of sentencing, both Metcalf and Bleasdale received a 12-month community order, which includes rehabilitation activities—30 days for Bleasdale and 15 days for Metcalf. They were also subjected to an eight-week curfew order and ordered to pay £245 each towards costs. Additionally, they were disqualified from keeping all animals for a period of three years, although this ban expired in May 2021. The case highlights the importance of animal welfare and the consequences of neglecting the needs of pets, serving as a stark reminder to pet owners everywhere.