WAYNE DONNELLY'S CRUELTY IN GATESHEAD: DOG LEFT TO SUFFER BEFORE BEING EUTHANIZED

Wayne Donnelly, a pub owner from Gateshead, has been at the center of a heartbreaking case involving the severe injury and subsequent death of his pet dog. Born on December 31, 1978, Donnelly owns the Bay Horse Inn located at 11 Coldwell Street, Felling, Gateshead NE10 9HH. His actions, which came to light during court proceedings, have sparked outrage and concern over animal welfare in the local community.

According to court reports, Donnelly’s eight-year-old Akita, a dog named Boost, suffered horrific injuries after being attacked by another dog owned by Donnelly himself. The injuries included puncture wounds on Boost’s neck and extensive skin peeling from his face, injuries so severe that veterinary professionals determined the dog could not be saved. Despite the gravity of Boost’s condition, Donnelly took the dog to an out-of-hours veterinary clinic but left before the animal could be examined, showing a disturbing lack of concern for his pet’s suffering.

The following day, Donnelly went on holiday, leaving Boost in a state of extreme pain and distress. It was only after a concerned member of the public contacted the RSPCA that the dog was finally rushed to a veterinary clinic for urgent treatment. Sadly, the injuries inflicted on Boost were so severe that the veterinary team had no choice but to euthanize him on humane grounds to prevent further suffering.

RSPCA inspector Rachel Hurst provided a detailed account of Boost’s condition upon rescue. She described the extent of the injuries, stating, “The skin underneath the fur was severely infected, and there were numerous puncture wounds around Boost’s neck, face, and around his eyes. There was severe bruising to the inside of his upper lips on both sides and marked swelling of his muzzle. His eyelids were so swollen it was not possible to fully assess his eyes. There was infection in both ears with pus visible, and large areas of hair and skin were peeled away and sloughed from his face.”

Inspector Hurst emphasized that Donnelly’s failure to seek proper veterinary treatment led to the dog’s prolonged pain, skin necrosis, and ultimately, the decision to euthanize Boost. Donnelly admitted in court that he neglected to provide necessary medical care for his injured dog, a failure that contributed to the tragic outcome.

In sentencing, Donnelly received a six-month jail sentence, which was suspended for a year. Additionally, he was ordered to complete 200 hours of unpaid work, pay £874 in costs and surcharge, and was banned from owning dogs for seven years, a restriction that will last until November 2029. The case has drawn significant attention in Gateshead, highlighting issues of animal cruelty and the responsibilities of pet owners in the community.