Portishead man sentenced after neglecting puppies who later died

PORTISHEAD MAN SENTENCED AFTER NEGLECTING PUPPIES WHO LATER DIED

Dawson, who has links to Redditch in Worcestershire, pleaded guilty to an animal welfare offence, following an investigation and prosecution by the RSPCA.

The animal charity visited Dawson’s home after concerns were raised about the welfare of his pets.

RSPCA Inspector Dan Hatfield described his findings: “The hallway was covered in puppy pads and Mr Dawson showed us into the bedroom where he had three large dog cages set up against the wall.

The second cage contained two bulldog-type puppies.

One of the puppies was roughly five months old, female, light brown and white, and appeared underweight.

“I could easily see her ribs, spine, and hip bones.

The other puppy was also roughly five months old, female, brown in colour, and appeared underweight, with her spine and ribs visible.

The cage they were kept in was covered in diarrhoea and urine, spread over the floor.” The puppies were taken to a vet for examination.

The report stated: “The lighter puppy was severely underweight at 2.72kg (normal for her size would be 3.5-4kg) and showed signs of stunted growth for her age.

Ulcerated lesions were present on her foot pads, some actively bleeding.

The second puppy weighed 3.67kg, was significantly underweight, and was covered in faeces.

She was emaciated, suffering from long-term diarrhoea, and had ulcerated foot pads.

The veterinarian concluded she was suffering from severe malnutrition and dehydration, likely for several months.

Despite veterinary and rescue efforts, both dogs unfortunately died.

Dawson pleaded guilty to animal welfare offences and was sentenced to a 26-week custodial sentence suspended for 18 months, with a £1,000 fine, £154 victim surcharge, and requirements for mental health and drug rehabilitation.

He is banned from keeping animals for 15 years but may appeal after 10 years (until March 2041).