SUE SHAW AND JACK WYNNE FROM SKELMERSDALE CONVICTED FOR HORRIFIC ANIMAL NEGLECT AND STARVATION

In a disturbing case that has shocked the community of Skelmersdale, Lancashire, two individuals, Sue Shaw and Jack Wynne, have been found guilty of severe animal cruelty involving the neglect and starvation of their pets. The incident came to light after authorities discovered the tragic state of two dogs living at their residence in Blakehall, Skelmersdale WN8 9AZ.

According to court reports, Shaw, born on April 10, 1964, and Wynne, born on November 13, 1993, were responsible for the suffering of two dogs, one of which was a French bulldog named Gucci. The animal's body was found in a mummified condition inside the bathtub, weighing a mere 3.5 kilograms—approximately one-third of what a healthy French bulldog of her age and size should weigh. The scene was a heartbreaking testament to neglect, with the dog having been starved to death.

Further investigations revealed the presence of another dog, Violet, who was found in a severely dehydrated and malnourished state. Violet weighed only 7.6 kilograms, a significant underweight for her breed, and was suffering from dehydration and poor health. The officers who responded to the scene noted that her feeding bowls were completely dry, and there was no water available for her or the other dog. The neglect was evident and deeply concerning.

An expert veterinary witness provided testimony during the court proceedings, describing Violet’s condition. The vet stated that Violet was visibly shaking and, when offered water, drank it rapidly, indicating her extreme dehydration. A second veterinarian examined Violet and confirmed that she was underweight and suffering from issues affecting her eyes and skin. Fortunately, after receiving veterinary treatment over the following three months, Violet showed signs of recovery. She gained over 3 kilograms (approximately 6.6 pounds), and her eyes and skin began to improve, demonstrating the impact of proper care.

Both Shaw and Wynne pleaded guilty to five separate animal welfare offences each, acknowledging their responsibility for the neglect and suffering inflicted upon the animals. In addition to the dogs, authorities also found a snake and a fish at the property, which were subsequently signed over to the RSPCA for care and further assessment.

Regarding sentencing, Shaw received a 26-week prison sentence, which was suspended for 18 months, meaning she would not serve time unless she committed another offence within that period. Wynne was sentenced to three months in prison, also suspended for 18 months. Both individuals were ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £154. Furthermore, they are both banned from keeping any animals for a period of ten years, a measure intended to prevent similar incidents in the future.

This case has garnered significant attention from local media outlets, including the Manchester Evening News and the Lancashire Telegraph, highlighting the importance of animal welfare and the consequences of neglecting vulnerable creatures.