A Leeds couple has been banned for life from owning animals and received suspended prison sentences after their Rottweiler, Tyson, was found in a severely malnourished state. The case unfolded as RSPCA officers, investigating concerns about Tyson’s well-being, described the dog as “obviously underweight” with visible ribs, spine, and hips.
A 57-year-old resident of Sholebroke Street, Leeds, appeared at Kirklees Magistrates Court on January 17, 2024, for sentencing, following a conviction on animal welfare offenses at a previous hearing. The individual was handed a 12-week prison sentence, suspended for 12 months, along with a lifetime ban on owning animals. Additionally, a mandate to complete 30 rehabilitation activity days was issued, along with the responsibility to cover costs of £172 and a victim surcharge of £128.
The case came to light after West Yorkshire Police removed Tyson from the Leeds property, acting on a report received by the RSPCA expressing concerns about the Rottweiler’s physical condition. Despite numerous visits by RSPCA officers to the address and advisory notices left for the owners, the couple failed to respond.
On April 26, 2021, an RSPCA officer managed to speak with the occupants, who were initially hesitant to allow them to see Tyson. The individual conceded that Tyson was skinny but argued that the dog, too, was thin. Subsequently, Tyson was observed by the attending officer, raising significant concerns about the dog’s emaciated state, describing him as having visible ribs, spine, hips, and a sunken stomach.
Despite offers from the RSPCA to take Tyson to a vet for assessment, the couple declined, asserting that Tyson was eating and toileting normally. A welfare notice was issued, mandating a vet visit for Tyson.
Returning to the property on May 1, 2021, with the assistance of West Yorkshire Police, an RSPCA inspector found Tyson to be in a shocking state. Describing the Rottweiler as “very thin” with prominent ribs, spine, and hip bones, the inspector reported dried faeces, a terrible smell, and marked muscle wastage. The owners had still not taken Tyson to a vet, leading to West Yorkshire Police removing the dog from their care.
Upon examination by a vet, Tyson was found to be emaciated with marked muscle wastage and signs of diarrhoea. The veterinary surgeon expressed dismay, stating that the suffering could have been avoided with appropriate veterinary attention or proper feeding.
Tyson was subsequently placed under the care of the RSPCA Leeds, Wakefield, and District Branch, where he underwent a feeding plan and received rehabilitation. Miraculously, Tyson made a full recovery, and after nearly a year in RSPCA care, he was released for rehoming through a court-ordered section 20 order.
An RSPCA inspector who spearheaded the investigation expressed relief at Tyson’s safety, acknowledging the dedicated work of RSPCA branches and frontline officers. Gratitude was extended to West Yorkshire Police for their assistance in removing Tyson and navigating the complexities of the case.
Tyson’s adopters shared their joy at his progress, emphasizing his integration into their family and improvement in demeanour each day. Meanwhile, the co-owner, who had previously appeared at Kirklees Magistrates Court on November 7, 2023, was found guilty in her absence. The individual received a 12-week suspended custody sentence, a lifetime ban on owning animals, and a five-year prohibition on appealing the decision.
In conclusion, this harrowing case underscores the importance of vigilance in animal welfare. The RSPCA’s intervention and subsequent rehabilitation efforts by their branches exemplify the commitment to ensuring that neglected animals, like Tyson, find the love, care, and safety they deserve. As the Leeds couple faces the consequences of their actions, this story serves as a stark reminder of the responsibilities that come with pet ownership and the need for stringent measures against those who fail in their duty to care for animals.
