SON VAN HUYNH AND HAI HUYNH FROM ST ANN'S FACE JUSTICE FOR HORRIFIC DOG NEGLECT IN NOTTINGHAM

In a deeply troubling case that has shocked the local community, Son Van Huynh and his son Hai Huynh, both residents of St Ann's, were found guilty of severe animal cruelty involving the neglect and subsequent euthanasia of three dogs. The incident, which drew significant attention from animal welfare organizations and the courts, highlights the tragic consequences of prolonged neglect and the failure of responsible pet ownership.

According to court records, the case came to light in August 2017 when the RSPCA was alerted by a concerned neighbor who reported hearing a persistent high-pitched whining emanating from the garden of a property located at 11 Kildare Road, Nottingham NG3 3AF. Upon arriving at the scene, RSPCA inspector Susan Hammond discovered a distressing scene that would later become a symbol of neglect and cruelty.

Inspector Hammond described the condition of the dogs found on the premises. The first was a Japanese Akita named Skye, who was found collapsed and covered in maggots, suffering from multiple open wounds. The inspector recounted, “Skye was in such a poor condition and had collapsed, she wasn’t able to stand at all. Her high-pitched crying was evident that she was suffering a great deal. She had open wounds on her body which were covered in maggots – her skin was rotting away and she was being eaten alive.” The severity of Skye’s condition necessitated immediate euthanasia on welfare grounds, a decision that deeply saddened all involved.

In addition to Skye, two other dogs were present on the property. Gino, a German Shepherd, was taken to a veterinary clinic where examinations revealed tumours on his foot and anus. The vet made the difficult decision to euthanize Gino as well, citing his suffering and poor prognosis. The third dog, a Shih Tzu named Miko, was found inside the house living in deplorable conditions. Miko was also euthanized after exhibiting aggressive behavior and attacking a staff member at an RSPCA center, which further underscored the neglect and distress these animals had endured.

During the investigation, it was revealed that Hai Huynh was responsible for the dogs’ welfare during his father’s absence. His explanation for the neglect was that he was preoccupied with working on a dissertation as part of his degree course at Nottingham Trent University. However, the court and animal welfare officials found this justification insufficient given the prolonged suffering and the clear failure to provide basic care, including access to fresh water and veterinary treatment.

Inspector Hammond expressed her sorrow over the case, emphasizing the long period of neglect that led to the animals’ suffering. She stated, “This is a very sad case which was the result of a long period of neglect. Hai was responsible for the dogs’ welfare while his dad was away, but they had already been suffering prior to this.”

The court proceedings culminated in a sentencing that reflected the gravity of the cruelty involved. Magistrate Caroline Exton highlighted the culpability of both men, stating, “We find there was greater harm and higher culpability because of the death and suffering caused to the three animals over a very prolonged period of neglect. You were both in a position of responsibility of care for these dogs. Both of you omitted to obtain veterinary care. You are equally culpable.”

Although the court imposed a lifetime ban on keeping animals for both men, the animal cruelty ban itself was not assigned a fixed end date, leaving open the possibility of future legal review. The sentencing included 12-week prison terms suspended for one year, along with orders for each to pay £150 towards the RSPCA’s costs and a government tax of £115. Additionally, they are required to undergo 12 days of training with probation officers, emphasizing the court’s focus on rehabilitation and accountability.

This case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of responsible pet ownership and the devastating consequences of neglect. The community continues to mourn the loss of these innocent animals and hopes that justice will serve as a deterrent to others who might consider similar acts of cruelty.