CONVICTED (2019) | Derrick Daniel Dawkins, born 1962, of Clement Street, Tredworth, Gloucester GL1 4JW – left two dogs outside continuously during the ‘Beast from East’ snowstorm.
Bull terriers Dessa and Diesel were found in a snow-covered yard without shelter as temperatures dropped below freezing. One of the dogs was tethered by a chain and had become entangled. Both had untreated painful lesions and sores on their legs and bodies.
Now the dogs’ cruel owner Derrick Daniel Dawkins, has been given a suspended prison sentence and banned from keeping any animal for 10 years.
Investigating RSPCA Inspector Phil Mann said: “As temperatures dropped below zero and snow covered the country, Dessa and Diesel were outside day and night without appropriate shelter.
“When I saw them locked outside, I feared that if I didn’t help them straight away there would have been two dead dogs in the following morning.
“Simply leaving pets outside to fend for themselves without shelter should never be seen as an option.
“Dogs must have constant access to a suitable shelter, and owners should also ensure bedding and sleeping areas are warm, dry and away from any draughts.
“It is shocking that Dawkins left these dogs outside during such horrendous conditions and even more heartbreaking to discover they had been left to suffer with painful, untreated sores.”
Dessa and Diesel have both now recovered from their ordeal while in the care of the team at the Cotswold Dogs and Cats Home.
The team is working with Diesel to prepare him for rehoming, whereas the RSPCA has said five-year-old Dessa is already looking for a special someone to give her a second chance.
A spokesperson for the RSPCA said: “Dessa loves nothing more than spending time with people and playing with toys.
“She would be best suited to a home with no other animals or children and is looking for an experienced owner with time and patience.
“She hasn’t had as much life experience and can find new environments overwhelming, although she is slowly learning that it is okay to snuggle up on the sofa.”
Sentencing | 18-week prison sentence, suspended for two years. £750 in court costs. Banned from keeping any animal for ten years.