CONVICTED (2009) | Barry Rock, born 27/04/1973, most recently of Osprey Drive, Dudley DY1 2JS, and his then wife Leanne Rock (now Priest), born 18/09/1978, currently (September 2020) of Cressett Avenue, Brierley Hill DY5 3XY – left a dog with multiple fractures, including a broken leg, plus burns on her body, smashed teeth and blindness in one eye

The Rocks each admitted two counts of causing unnecessary suffering to an animal and a third count of not taking reasonable steps to ensure the needs of an animal in their care between May 2 and 20, 2008.

The couple’s terrier-cross Britney had multiple fractures including rib and hip injuries, a broken leg and burns on her body when she was examined by vets in May 2008. One of her eyes was so badly bruised it had turned blue and she had lost all sight in it.

The court heard Britney was presented to a PDSA vets practice by a relative of the Rocks who said the dog had trouble standing up.

X-rays revealed a series of fractures which had taken place over a prolonged period of time. Further examinations revealed a further seven fractures of teeth, swelling to her temple and a deformed ear. The vet alerted police.

Barry Rock told officers it was feasible Britney could have sustained the injuries herself because “she was always getting stuck behind things”. But Mr Nick Sutton, prosecuting, told magistrates this explanation was “inadequate”.

Mr Richard Burch, defending, told the court the couple had four children aged between 10 months and eight years, one of whom suffers with autism and Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder. They simply “could not cope” with looking after their children and their pet, Mr Burch said.

The dog has since been rehomed in Cradley Heath and is battling back to full health with her new owners, who have renamed her Millie.

Sentencing: 12-week prison term, suspended for two years. Lifetime ban on keeping animals.

Express & Star