CONVICTED (2017) | Paul Thomas, born c. 1970, and son Steven Andrew Thomas, born c. 1990, both of River Road, Pontlottyn – failed to treat their dog’s health problems or feed him properly

Father and son Paul and Steven Thomas were banned from keeping animals for five years, after their pet whippet, known as Sandy, was found severely underweight, with sore open wounds, diseased ears and a flea infestation.

The dog’s condition was so bad that the he had to be put to sleep on welfare grounds, following veterinary advice.

RSPCA Cymru arrived at the property in October 2016, and found a thin dog, whose hips and spine were prominent, and with sore open wounds on display.

It was also found that the dog had diseased ears, and a flea infestation, which the pair did not take steps to address.

The charity says Sandy suffered unnecessarily as a consequence of the pair failing to investigate and address his poorly condition.

RSPCA Inspector Izzi Hignell said: “When I arrived at the property and saw poor Sandy, I was told the dog had not been to the vets for many, many years – which shocked me, given his condition.

“Sandy was in a desperately poor state; worryingly thin, and his hips and spine very prominent. He also had two open wounds which looked exceptionally sore.

“Unfortunately, on veterinary advice, Sandy had to be put to sleep – which highlights the truly shocking state the poor dog was in.

“The outcome of this case highlights the consequences of failing to look after your pet properly, and it’s so sad that Sandy’s life was lost after the way he was treated.”

Sentencing: 12-week curfew; ordered to pay a total of £235 each. Five-year ban (expired March 2022).

Wales Online