SUE MCVAY FROM LEMINGTON FACES JUSTICE FOR ANIMAL CRUELTY IN NEWCASTLE

Sue McVay, a hobby breeder residing on Beanley Avenue in Lemington, Newcastle upon Tyne, has been found guilty of neglecting multiple animals, including cats and guinea pigs, in conditions that were described as deplorable. The case, which has garnered significant attention, highlights the severity of animal cruelty and the importance of animal welfare laws.

On April 3, 2017, an RSPCA inspector visited McVay’s property following a report from a concerned member of the public. Upon entering the premises, the inspector was immediately met with a foul and overwhelming smell, indicative of the unsanitary conditions inside. The floors were littered with animal faeces and various types of rubbish, creating a hazardous environment for any living creatures within.

During the inspection, the inspector discovered six cats living in distress. All of these cats were underweight, with some showing signs of neglect such as being covered in faeces. One of the cats, identified as Ruby, was found to have an untreated burst abscess and appeared to be suffering from conjunctivitis and an ear disease. Another cat, named Saki, was also in poor health, being underweight and suffering from oral diseases that required veterinary attention.

In addition to the cats, the inspector found 12 guinea pigs confined in cages that were in a similarly neglected state. The cages were filthy, and the animals appeared to be in poor health, further emphasizing the extent of the neglect. The animals were subsequently taken to a veterinary clinic for examination and treatment. Currently, they are in foster homes, receiving the care they desperately need to recover from their ordeal.

Following the investigation, McVay was summoned to court but failed to attend the proceedings. The case was brought by the RSPCA, which emphasized the cruelty inflicted upon the animals under her care. The court ultimately convicted McVay of causing suffering to animals, a serious offense under animal welfare legislation.

In sentencing, McVay was ordered to pay a total of £630 in costs and fines. Additionally, she received an unspecified ban on keeping animals, which aims to prevent her from reoffending and to protect future animals from similar neglect. This case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of responsible pet ownership and the ongoing efforts of animal welfare organizations to combat cruelty in the community of Lemington and beyond.