Wednesbury woman gets 10-year animal ban for leaving elderly dog to suffer in yard filled with rubbish and 'brown sludge'

Lisa Leach, of Moor Street, Wednesbury, was handed the 10-year ban after concerns were raised about a 15-year-old Labrador named Lucas who was reported as living in the garden of her address. 

The offences took place between November 22, 2023, and December 8, 2023, with investigators visiting the address between those dates.

Following one welfare visit by RSPCA inspectors, Lucas was taken to a vet who found he was emaciated with a 'condition score' of just one out of nine. Sadly, his condition was such that he had to be put down.

The inspector said that upon seeing the dog for the first time, he became "immediately concerned" at his body condition. He noted that despite having a thick coat, "his waist appeared very thin".

RSCPA Investigator Karl Marston, who investigated on behalf of the charity, said: "I was immediately concerned by his body condition.

"Despite having quite a thick coat, his waist appeared very thin, with his ribcage and hip bones prominent. He appeared very wet and unsteady on his legs. 

"He didn't seem to be able to stand for a prolonged period." 

After investigating the state of the home, the investigator said that the garden where the dog had been living was filled with faeces and cluttered with household rubbish.

He added: "The garden was very cluttered with household rubbish, dog faeces, and the area nearest the door was covered in thick brown sludgy material.

"There were scattered dog biscuits by the door and some bowls in the area." 

Sadly, despite being rescued by the charity, Lucas had to be put to sleep because of the severity of his health. 

Inspector Marston said: "Lucas relied on Leach to ensure he was given the care he needed and deserved. He was an elderly dog who should have been treated with kindness and compassion but was instead left to suffer without any help or the vet care he desperately needed.

"Dogs feel pain and suffering just like we do and always deserve to be shown kindness and compassion.

"If any pet owner is struggling to care for their animal we’d encourage them to reach out to a local charity or organisation who can help. Please never ignore an animal in desperate need of help, no animal should suffer like this."

After pleading guilty to two animal welfare offences, Leach was handed the 10-year ban and was also sentenced to 18 weeks in custody, suspended for 12 months.