SAM RIGBY FROM HORTON FACES JUSTICE OVER CRUELTY TO ELDERLY DOG IN ILMINSTER
| Red Rose Database
Horton Animal Abuser
Samuel Aaron Rigby, born on January 3, 1997, and residing at 6 Riverside, Horton, Ilminster TA19 9RS, was recently convicted of a serious case of animal cruelty involving an elderly dog named Bella. The incident drew significant attention from local animal welfare authorities and the community, highlighting the importance of responsible pet ownership.
Rigby, who is employed as a tree surgeon and maintains connections to the nearby town of Taunton, admitted to neglecting the basic needs of Bella, an 11-year-old dog. The charges stemmed from allegations that he failed to provide her with a proper diet and neglected her health, particularly her eye condition. The RSPCA launched an investigation after receiving a report expressing concern over Bella’s deteriorating condition.
When examined by veterinary professionals, Bella was found to be in a dire state. She was severely underweight, exhibiting a thin and lethargic appearance, with a visibly tucked-in abdomen and prominent bones in her hips, spine, and shoulders. Her coat showed signs of distress, with staining and hair loss caused by persistent licking, especially around her back end and feet. These symptoms indicated ongoing irritation, likely due to a flea infestation, which would have caused her significant discomfort and disturbed sleep.
Further detailed veterinary assessments revealed more troubling issues. Both eyelids were thickened and crusted, suggesting long-term skin disease. Bella’s right eye was partially closed, a sign of probable pain, while her left eye displayed clouding on the surface of the eyeball, indicating possible damage or infection. An abdominal examination uncovered a firm, grapefruit-sized area suspected to be an inflamed bladder, adding to her list of health problems.
Additional findings included muscle wasting, mammary tumors, dental disease, inflammation in her toes, and reduced mobility in her elbow and shoulder joints. She was also passing red urine, which pointed to underlying health complications. X-ray scans revealed abnormalities within her chest, abdomen, and spine, further emphasizing the extent of her suffering.
Given the severity of her condition and the pain she was likely experiencing, veterinary professionals made the difficult decision to humanely euthanize Bella. Her case underscored the tragic consequences of neglect and the importance of animal welfare laws.
In the aftermath of the case, Rigby was sentenced to a fine of £460, along with a victim surcharge of £184 and a contribution of £400 towards the RSPCA’s prosecution costs. Additionally, he received a two-year ban from owning or caring for any dogs, which will remain in effect until May 2025. The case was reported by the Chard and Ilminster News and the Somerset County Gazette, serving as a stark reminder of the responsibilities that come with pet ownership and the consequences of neglect.
Rigby, who is employed as a tree surgeon and maintains connections to the nearby town of Taunton, admitted to neglecting the basic needs of Bella, an 11-year-old dog. The charges stemmed from allegations that he failed to provide her with a proper diet and neglected her health, particularly her eye condition. The RSPCA launched an investigation after receiving a report expressing concern over Bella’s deteriorating condition.
When examined by veterinary professionals, Bella was found to be in a dire state. She was severely underweight, exhibiting a thin and lethargic appearance, with a visibly tucked-in abdomen and prominent bones in her hips, spine, and shoulders. Her coat showed signs of distress, with staining and hair loss caused by persistent licking, especially around her back end and feet. These symptoms indicated ongoing irritation, likely due to a flea infestation, which would have caused her significant discomfort and disturbed sleep.
Further detailed veterinary assessments revealed more troubling issues. Both eyelids were thickened and crusted, suggesting long-term skin disease. Bella’s right eye was partially closed, a sign of probable pain, while her left eye displayed clouding on the surface of the eyeball, indicating possible damage or infection. An abdominal examination uncovered a firm, grapefruit-sized area suspected to be an inflamed bladder, adding to her list of health problems.
Additional findings included muscle wasting, mammary tumors, dental disease, inflammation in her toes, and reduced mobility in her elbow and shoulder joints. She was also passing red urine, which pointed to underlying health complications. X-ray scans revealed abnormalities within her chest, abdomen, and spine, further emphasizing the extent of her suffering.
Given the severity of her condition and the pain she was likely experiencing, veterinary professionals made the difficult decision to humanely euthanize Bella. Her case underscored the tragic consequences of neglect and the importance of animal welfare laws.
In the aftermath of the case, Rigby was sentenced to a fine of £460, along with a victim surcharge of £184 and a contribution of £400 towards the RSPCA’s prosecution costs. Additionally, he received a two-year ban from owning or caring for any dogs, which will remain in effect until May 2025. The case was reported by the Chard and Ilminster News and the Somerset County Gazette, serving as a stark reminder of the responsibilities that come with pet ownership and the consequences of neglect.