CONVICTED (2015) | Tracy Jane Dawson, born 06/10/1972, of 281 Broxtowe Lane, Aspley, Nottingham NG8 5NE, and son Robert Scott Smith, born 29/07/1993, of 1 Chetwin Road, Bilborough, Nottingham NG8 4HU – left pet dog to starve for at least 6 weeks

Vets believe morbidly obese Tracy Dawson and son Robert Smith underfed the crossbreed named Bruce for at least six weeks. His ribs were clearly visible when he was rescued by RSPCA inspectors.

The pair admitted causing unnecessary suffering to the dog.
Prosecutor Paul Wright said: “On March 2 [2015], it was reported there was a dog at a home in a poor state. Inspectors from the RSPCA attended and spoke to Tracy Dawson.

“The dog was extremely thin with a sunken face.

“He was assessed by surgeons who gave a body score of 0.5 out of five, where one is emaciated, so he was severely underweight. He was skin and bones.

“His condition was due to starving and lack of nutrition.

“Both defendants were interviewed voluntarily and both accepted there was an issue.”

Bruce was taken in by the RSPCA and brought back to full health.

Sentencing: 12-month community order; 100 hours of unpaid work; costs of £500 each. Banned from keeping animals for five years (expired July 2020).

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