Couple from Shropshire border banned from keeping dogs after pet left to suffer

Mark Stange, 52, and Jennifer Stange, 62, of Tenbury Wells, were found guilty of causing unnecessary suffering to their two dogs Star and Sadie, between February 28 and May 28, 2016, contrary to Section 4 of the Animal Welfare Act 2006.

The RSPCA discovered the two West Highland terriers were suffering with the painful skin condition after receiving calls from members of the public who were concerned for the dogs’ welfare.

When RSPCA Inspector Suzi Smith first saw Star and Sadie she was shocked to see the dogs with hardly any hair and crusty, greasy, infected and inflamed skin with scabs but has since found herself even more shocked after unknowingly selecting Star as the winner of the ‘best rescue’ category when she was recently asked to judge a charity dog show in Hereford.

She said: “Star’s new owner brought her along to the local RSPCA branch dog show as part of the River Carnival in Hereford where I was judging alongside Wye Valley Vets.

“I had no idea she was coming and honestly didn't recognise her with all her hair- needless to say I ended with tears in my eyes.

“Pet owners need to realise that they have a responsibility to care for their animals.

"That includes ensuring any health issues are dealt with promptly to avoid distress to animals in their care.”

The trial took place earlier this month at Worcester Magistrates’ Court.

Mr Stange told the court he did not believe the dogs were suffering.

Alongside the disqualification, both were ordered by the court to carry out a 12 month community order with a 30 day rehabilitation order.

They were also ordered to pay a £60 fine, £600 costs, plus a victim surcharge.

There is a 28 day suspension on the disqualification, which can not be appealed for three years, to allow them time to rehome their two other dogs.