SUSAN AND JAMES ROSS FROM WHITLEY BAY FACE DECADE PET BAN AFTER CRUELTY CASE

In a case that has shocked the community of Whitley Bay, Susan Ross, born in 1955, and her son James F Ross, born around 1989, both residents of Kingsley Avenue, were found guilty of neglecting their pets and causing unnecessary suffering. The RSPCA prosecuted the mother and son after discovering that their beloved animals, a cat named Roxy and a cockatiel named Eddie, were in a state of severe neglect and distress due to a lack of proper veterinary care.

Roxy, an approximately six-year-old tabby cat, was found to be suffering from a severe flea infestation that had led to a painful skin condition. Her fur was falling out in patches, and she was covered in fleas, which caused her significant discomfort. Despite the obvious signs of her suffering, the owners failed to seek veterinary treatment for her condition. The court heard that James Ross had purchased flea spray, but this was not enough to address her worsening health. Neither Susan nor James took Roxy to a veterinarian, even as her condition deteriorated.

Meanwhile, Eddie, a grey and yellow cockatiel, was discovered in a dire state. The bird was lying at the bottom of his cage, covered in droppings, and unable to perch on the bars as he struggled to breathe. His feathers and feet were encrusted with waste, indicating he had been left in a neglected environment for some time. The court was told that Eddie was unable to access his food and water properly, which contributed to his declining health. Although the cage was kept relatively clean, the bird’s poor condition was a clear sign of neglect.

Both animals were taken to a veterinarian by the RSPCA for urgent care. Tragically, Eddie was euthanized on the same day, as it was deemed in his best interests due to his critical condition. Roxy was treated with medication to combat her fleas but continued to struggle with weight gain. Further examination revealed she had an unrelated tumour, and she was also put to sleep in November 2016. The court heard that Susan Ross, who was unemployed at the time, had not taken her pets for veterinary treatment because she was busy helping her daughter with her young child. She also claimed that her late husband had been responsible for Eddie’s care and that she was unaware of the bird’s illness.

Both Susan and James Ross pleaded guilty to causing unnecessary suffering by neglecting their pets and failing to provide essential veterinary care. As a result, they were both banned from owning any animals for ten years, a ban that will last until January 2027. The court also ordered each to pay a total of £330 in costs and fines. Outside the courtroom, RSPCA inspector Helen Bestwick expressed her disappointment, stating, “It should have been obvious to the owners to get treatment for their pets and consider costs before they have a pet.”

This case highlights the importance of responsible pet ownership and the need for owners to seek prompt veterinary care when animals show signs of illness or distress, especially in communities like Whitley Bay where such neglect can have tragic consequences.