SHARON PARRY AND MARK LOUTH FROM CREWE FACE JUSTICE OVER DOG'S DEATH

Sharon Parry, born on 15 February 1971, and Mark Louth, born around 1972, both residents of 63 Claughton Avenue in Crewe CW2 6EY, found themselves in court charged with neglecting their severely ill dog, Mitzy, a Staffordshire bull terrier. The tragic case unfolded when the couple failed to seek urgent veterinary care for Mitzy, who was suffering from a serious medical condition, and instead chose to bury her in their backyard after her death.

Mitzy had been experiencing intense suffering over a period of time, with her owners making only minimal efforts to obtain medical assistance. The court heard that Sharon Parry attempted to contact a veterinary practice but abandoned her efforts after being told she needed to send an email, a task she admitted she was unfamiliar with and found difficult due to her limited internet skills. Mark Louth and Sharon Parry’s neglect was further highlighted by the fact that they did not pursue alternative veterinary options despite recognizing the severity of Mitzy’s condition.

The RSPCA launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding Mitzy’s death after the couple’s actions came to light. The authorities exhumed the dog for an autopsy, which revealed that Mitzy had been suffering from pyometra, a serious uterine infection that causes nausea and vomiting. The veterinarian’s report indicated that Mitzy had been ill for several weeks, having collapsed four or five weeks prior to her death, and had been in pain for approximately 92 to 100 hours before she succumbed.

Prosecutor Kevin Worthington from the RSPCA described the case, stating, “The animal had been suffering from a case of pyometra which the vet said caused nausea and vomiting. It was obvious the animal was ill, it had collapsed four or five weeks before and the vet said it was suffering from 92 to 100 hours before it died.” He further commented that there appeared to be an element of “well-intentioned but incompetent care” in how the couple handled Mitzy’s illness.

During the court proceedings, the couple’s solicitor, Ruth Oakes, explained that Sharon Parry and Mark Louth had made some attempts to seek help. She stated, “They tried to make enquiries and they did phone one veterinary service but were told they would have to send an email. Sharon (Parry) says she does not know how to send an email – they are both not particularly good at using the internet. They did make enquiries but they gave up fairly easily.”

Both Parry and Louth admitted to causing unnecessary suffering to a protected animal between June 1 and June 4, 2020. The court was informed that Mitzy was an elderly dog and a cherished member of the family. The couple also owned another dog and were visibly distressed at the thought of that animal being taken away by the RSPCA. Ruth Oakes added, “They feel regret and they do miss the dog. There is an acceptance from both of them that they could have done more to assist her. They became aware the dog was ill, but put in context the dog was quite old.”

District Judge Nick Sanders addressed the defendants, emphasizing the seriousness of their neglect: “The dog may have died as it was clearly very ill, but the failure to get veterinary help is a concern.”

In sentencing, the court imposed a two-year conditional discharge, along with costs and charges amounting to £272 each. Additionally, the couple received a three-year ban on owning or keeping a dog, which expired in December 2023. A deprivation order was also issued concerning their other dog, removing it from their care. The case highlights the importance of responsible pet ownership and the consequences of neglecting vulnerable animals in Crewe.