SAMANTHA ORANGE FROM EAST MOOR SENTENCED FOR STARVING GERMAN SHEPHERD CROSS TO DEATH IN WAKEFIELD

In a disturbing case that has shocked the local community, Samantha Jayne Orange, also known as Samantha Silvester, of 4 Dent Drive, Wakefield WF1 4JG, has been found guilty of neglecting her pet, a seven-year-old male German Shepherd-cross named Kuma. The heartbreaking incident unfolded in East Moor, where Orange left her dog to suffer in silence for an extended period.

According to reports, Kuma was discovered in a severely emaciated state after a family member found him collapsed and living in the downstairs toilet of Orange’s residence on December 31, 2020. The family member, distressed by the dog's condition, immediately arranged for veterinary treatment. The veterinarian who examined Kuma quickly recognized the severity of his condition, concluding that the dog was so critically ill that euthanasia was the most humane option to end his suffering.

Following the veterinarian’s assessment, the case was reported to the RSPCA, prompting inspector Kris Walker to investigate the circumstances surrounding Kuma’s neglect. Inspector Walker’s inspection revealed a tragic scene: Kuma was extremely underweight, with his spine, ribs, pelvis, and hips all prominently visible. The dog emitted a strong odor of faeces and ammonia, indicating poor hygiene and neglect. The post-mortem examination confirmed the worst fears, revealing that Kuma weighed only 16 kilograms—less than half the typical weight for a dog of his breed and age.

The veterinarian’s report detailed that Kuma’s body score was a mere one out of nine, with the lowest score indicating extreme emaciation. Visible bones, including ribs, lumbar vertebrae, and pelvic bones, could be seen from a distance. The veterinarian noted the absence of discernible body fat and significant muscle loss. It was observed that Kuma was wearing a collar that was several sizes too large, suggesting that he had once been at a healthy weight but had experienced rapid and severe weight loss, likely over a period of two to three weeks.

Further examination revealed that Kuma’s coat was matted and covered in dried faeces, especially under his nails, which were severely overgrown by about half an inch. The presence of live fleas and a substantial amount of flea dirt indicated a prolonged period of neglect and poor hygiene. His ears were waxy, and his eyes appeared sunken with thick, gummy secretions, signs of severe dehydration and dehydration-related health issues. These symptoms are consistent with a loss of at least 10% of the dog’s total body water.

Inspector Walker emphasized that there is no justification for neglecting a pet’s basic needs. He stated, “There is never an excuse not to feed a pet and anyone who is struggling can seek help from many animal welfare charities.”

In court, Orange was sentenced to a 12-month community order, which includes 25 days of rehabilitation activities. She was also ordered to pay £260 in costs and charges. Most notably, she received a lifetime ban on owning or keeping any animals, a measure designed to prevent any future neglect or abuse. This case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of animal welfare and the consequences of neglect in the Wakefield area.