CONVICTED (2024) | Ashley Graveling, born c. 1996, of Herle Avenue, Braunstone, Leicester LE3 1RQ – left a cat to suffer with an untreated skin disease.
Potential animal hoarder Ashley Graveling came to the attention of RSPCA inspectors after concerns about the welfare of his many pets were raised.
Fears about the animals being left unattended were also flagged with RSPCA teams between August and September 2023.
Despite numerous visits by inspectors, Graveling failed to act on advice about the care required for one cat in particular, Dolly. She was suffering from a skin disease that left her with multiple crusting lesions and scabs which risked infection.
Vets also found that Dolly was was significantly underweight. Examination found she had been provided an unsuitable diet which left her hungry. This had also caused her to suffer from a lack of energy.
The RSPCA removed Dolly from Graveling and took her and an unnamed rabbit into their care. Both animals are said to now be “doing well”.
Graveling said his poor mental health had impacted his ability to care for Dolly and the rabbit but admitted he should have sought help.
The RSPCA subsequently charged Graveling with two offences under the Animal Welfare Act on the grounds of causing unnecessary suffering to Dolly.
During an appearance at Leicester Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday, May 22, 2024, he admitted to failing to act upon the cat’s skin disease and helping address her weight loss issues and general poor condition.
Speaking after the case, RSPCA Inspector Herchy Boal said: “The RSPCA had tried to help this defendant on a number of occasions – but he did not take our offer of support.
“The RSPCA urges anyone struggling to take care of their animal to ask for help and act on advice, rather than neglecting them and leaving them to suffer.”
Sentencing | eight-week jail term, suspended for 18 months.; £150 costs and £154 victim surcharge. Disqualified from keeping all animals for five years (expires May 2029).