STUART SQUIBB FROM BRADING SENTENCED FOR CRUELTY TO ELDERLY DOG WEASEL IN SANDOWN

Stuart Squibb, a resident of Lower Furlongs in Brading, Sandown, has been convicted of severe animal cruelty after neglecting his elderly pet dog, Weasel, leading to the dog’s tragic death. Born on August 22, 1996, Squibb, who is a father of two, showed a blatant lack of remorse for the mistreatment of the 11-year-old whippet, which was originally owned by his late mother.

Details of the case reveal that Squibb allowed Weasel to suffer in a state of extreme emaciation and physical pain, conditions that ultimately resulted in the dog being euthanized. The neglect persisted from November 14, 2022, to January 14, 2023, during which time Weasel’s health deteriorated significantly. Despite the dog’s suffering, Squibb initially denied any wrongdoing, maintaining his innocence up until the day before his trial was scheduled to commence.

On New Year’s Day, a dog walker, appalled by Weasel’s condition, recorded a video of the dog’s suffering and shared it with the RSPCA. This act of concern prompted an investigation by the animal welfare organization. However, Squibb initially ignored multiple phone calls and visits from RSPCA officers, refusing to cooperate with their inquiries.

Eventually, an investigator was granted access to Squibb’s property, where they found Weasel in a dire state of health. The dog was severely underweight, suffering from untreated osteoarthritis, and had a deformed lower limb that had left him unable to walk properly for six to eight months. It was also revealed that Weasel had not received any veterinary care for approximately 18 months, which contributed to his poor condition. Sarah Wheadon, representing the RSPCA in court, stated that Weasel’s quality of life was extremely poor and that euthanasia was the only humane option.

During the legal proceedings at the Isle of Wight Magistrates’ Court, Squibb failed to attend an initial interview with the RSPCA. He later denied the charges of causing unnecessary suffering, but a trial was scheduled for August 16, 2023. The day before the trial, Squibb changed his plea, admitting to the charges.

Prosecutor Mrs. Wheadon emphasized that Squibb had deliberately ignored Weasel’s welfare, failed to cooperate with investigators, and showed no remorse for his actions. The court heard that Squibb had inherited Weasel from his late mother and claimed to have taken the dog to a veterinarian after noticing mobility issues and a loss of appetite. However, the RSPCA contested this, asserting that no such veterinary visit had taken place.

Squibb also cited financial hardship, claiming he had lost his job and was unable to care properly for Weasel, but maintained that he always ensured the dog was fed. His attorney, Jim Osborne, stated that Squibb was deeply remorseful and understood the gravity of his neglect.

Presiding magistrate David King condemned the case as a tragic example of prolonged animal suffering. As part of his sentence, Squibb received one year of probation, which includes 15 rehabilitation sessions and 80 hours of unpaid community service. Additionally, he was ordered to pay a £140 surcharge and was disqualified from owning or caring for any animals for five years, a ban that will last until September 2028. The costs incurred by the RSPCA for the investigation and prosecution are to be covered by public funds.

Sources close to the case revealed that Squibb had a habit of leaving Weasel alone and unattended in the garden for several days at a time while he was away, further highlighting the neglect that led to the dog’s suffering.