SHONA HALE FROM WEYMOUTH CONVICTED FOR CRUELTY TO DOGS IN POOR LIVING CONDITIONS
| Red Rose Database
Weymouth Animal Abuser
Shona Louise Hale, born around 1991 and residing at 161 Littlemoor Road in Weymouth, has been found guilty of severe animal neglect that resulted in the suffering of two wire-haired lurcher-type dogs named Branna and Sky. The conviction stems from her failure to provide proper care for these animals, which were discovered in deplorable conditions with untreated health issues.
On June 25, 2022, the RSPCA responded to concerns raised about the welfare of Hale’s dogs at her residence, which she shares with her husband, Callum Hale, and their two children. The rescue team was called to her home in Weymouth after reports indicated that the dogs were living in distress and neglect. Inspector Patrick Bailey, who led the investigation, described the dogs’ condition as alarming. He noted that Sky was visibly underweight, with her spine and hip bones prominently protruding, and her fur was thinning on her lower back and at the base of her tail. Her skin was inflamed and pink, indicating irritation and infection.
Branna’s condition was even more severe. The inspector observed extensive fur loss on her lower back, hind legs, tail, stomach, chest, and underneath her neck. Her fur was matted into knots, and her skin was covered with scabs, some of which were visible on her back, tail, and legs. Fleas were crawling on both dogs, and they were attempting to rest on the sofa but were constantly disturbed by itching, scratching, licking, and nibbling at themselves. The dogs’ suffering was evident, and their physical state reflected neglect and untreated health issues.
Inspector Bailey managed to persuade Callum Hale to allow the dogs to be taken to a veterinary clinic for a thorough health assessment. The veterinary examination confirmed that Branna was suffering unnecessarily due to a chronic skin infection, flea infestation, and mange. The vets emphasized that neither dog had received the necessary veterinary care to meet their needs. Following the veterinary check, the dogs were transferred to an RSPCA rescue center, where their condition improved markedly within just two weeks of treatment. The skin on both dogs returned to a normal color, and the greasy, foul smell was eliminated. Fleas were eradicated, and Branna showed significant recovery, with new hair growth appearing on her lower back and a reduction in scabs.
Hale, who also owns horses, was charged with causing unnecessary suffering to a protected animal—specifically Branna—by neglecting to provide adequate veterinary treatment for her severe and chronic skin condition. She was also convicted of failing to meet the basic needs of the animals under her care. The case highlights the importance of responsible pet ownership and the necessity of seeking professional veterinary assistance when animals are in distress.
Following the court proceedings, RSPCA inspector Charlotte Le Brun issued a statement emphasizing the critical role of veterinary care. She urged all pet owners to ensure their animals receive proper treatment from qualified professionals. She pointed out that Hale had previously been offered assistance from the RSPCA, including help with veterinary care, but she failed to act on these offers. The inspector stressed that owning an animal is a privilege that comes with responsibilities, including ensuring their health and safety. The neglect demonstrated in this case underscores the devastating consequences of failing to meet these responsibilities.
Hale was sentenced to a two-year conditional discharge and ordered to pay a £26 victim surcharge. Additionally, she faces a five-year ban on owning dogs, which will remain in effect until October 2028. This case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of animal welfare and the legal consequences of neglecting those who cannot speak for themselves.
On June 25, 2022, the RSPCA responded to concerns raised about the welfare of Hale’s dogs at her residence, which she shares with her husband, Callum Hale, and their two children. The rescue team was called to her home in Weymouth after reports indicated that the dogs were living in distress and neglect. Inspector Patrick Bailey, who led the investigation, described the dogs’ condition as alarming. He noted that Sky was visibly underweight, with her spine and hip bones prominently protruding, and her fur was thinning on her lower back and at the base of her tail. Her skin was inflamed and pink, indicating irritation and infection.
Branna’s condition was even more severe. The inspector observed extensive fur loss on her lower back, hind legs, tail, stomach, chest, and underneath her neck. Her fur was matted into knots, and her skin was covered with scabs, some of which were visible on her back, tail, and legs. Fleas were crawling on both dogs, and they were attempting to rest on the sofa but were constantly disturbed by itching, scratching, licking, and nibbling at themselves. The dogs’ suffering was evident, and their physical state reflected neglect and untreated health issues.
Inspector Bailey managed to persuade Callum Hale to allow the dogs to be taken to a veterinary clinic for a thorough health assessment. The veterinary examination confirmed that Branna was suffering unnecessarily due to a chronic skin infection, flea infestation, and mange. The vets emphasized that neither dog had received the necessary veterinary care to meet their needs. Following the veterinary check, the dogs were transferred to an RSPCA rescue center, where their condition improved markedly within just two weeks of treatment. The skin on both dogs returned to a normal color, and the greasy, foul smell was eliminated. Fleas were eradicated, and Branna showed significant recovery, with new hair growth appearing on her lower back and a reduction in scabs.
Hale, who also owns horses, was charged with causing unnecessary suffering to a protected animal—specifically Branna—by neglecting to provide adequate veterinary treatment for her severe and chronic skin condition. She was also convicted of failing to meet the basic needs of the animals under her care. The case highlights the importance of responsible pet ownership and the necessity of seeking professional veterinary assistance when animals are in distress.
Following the court proceedings, RSPCA inspector Charlotte Le Brun issued a statement emphasizing the critical role of veterinary care. She urged all pet owners to ensure their animals receive proper treatment from qualified professionals. She pointed out that Hale had previously been offered assistance from the RSPCA, including help with veterinary care, but she failed to act on these offers. The inspector stressed that owning an animal is a privilege that comes with responsibilities, including ensuring their health and safety. The neglect demonstrated in this case underscores the devastating consequences of failing to meet these responsibilities.
Hale was sentenced to a two-year conditional discharge and ordered to pay a £26 victim surcharge. Additionally, she faces a five-year ban on owning dogs, which will remain in effect until October 2028. This case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of animal welfare and the legal consequences of neglecting those who cannot speak for themselves.