ROSS PARKHOUSE HORRIFICALLY STARVES DOGS IN BARNSTAPLE - RSPCA INVESTIGATION REVEALS HORRIFIC CRUELTY

Ross Parkhouse, born on September 20, 1989, and residing at 2 Willshere Road, Barnstaple, has been found guilty of severe animal cruelty involving his pet dogs. The case, which has shocked the local community and animal welfare advocates alike, centers around the neglect and starvation of two dogs under his care, an American bulldog named Duke and a Staffy-type dog called Blue.

According to the RSPCA, Parkhouse deliberately left both animals to suffer from extreme malnutrition over an extended period. The neglect was so severe that Blue was discovered in a near-death state, emaciated and barely able to survive. The dog was passing non-food objects in his feces, a clear sign of starvation and the inability to find sustenance within the property. The RSPCA’s investigation revealed that Blue had been deprived of adequate nutrition for a prolonged duration, leading to his skeletal condition.

Duke, on the other hand, was found dead, his body in an emaciated state consistent with starvation. A post-mortem examination confirmed that Duke had succumbed due to a lack of food, highlighting the tragic consequences of Parkhouse’s neglect.

The veterinary report detailed the extent of the suffering inflicted upon these animals. It stated, “The needs of these dogs had not been met to the extent required by good practice due to the person responsible for the welfare of these animals failing to provide a suitable diet. They were caused to suffer as a consequence of not being provided with a suitable level of nutrition for a prolonged period.”

During the court proceedings, Parkhouse expressed remorse, attributing his neglect to his struggles with drug addiction. He apologized for the harm caused to the dogs, acknowledging his failure to care for them properly.

The sentencing hearing was described by the bench’s chair as “one of the most distressing and horrific cases this bench has ever heard.” The court heard how Parkhouse watched helplessly as his dogs endured prolonged suffering, with evidence indicating he failed to seek help from animal welfare agencies or veterinary services. The investigation uncovered that the dogs had resorted to eating wood and leather, signs of extreme desperation and lack of food within the home.

Fortunately, Blue has since been rescued and is now fully recovering under the care of the RSPCA. The case resulted in a significant custodial sentence for Parkhouse, who was sentenced to 18 weeks in immediate custody. Additionally, he was banned indefinitely from owning or keeping any animals, a restriction that cannot be lifted for 30 years, effectively preventing him from reoffending in this manner.

This case underscores the importance of animal welfare and the devastating consequences of neglect, serving as a stark reminder of the responsibilities that come with pet ownership and the vigilance required to protect vulnerable animals in the community.