CONVICTED (2019) | Jason Bowditch, born 16 September 1975, and Samantha Rees-Bowditch, born 3 May 1974, of Whitworth Road, Gosport PO12 3NN – for starving two dogs until their bones were visible
RSPCA inspectors rescued emaciated cross-breed Sazzle and a terrier called Leggs from the home of Jason Bowditch and Samantha Rees-Bowditch, after being alerted by a concerned member of the public.
Such was the ‘shocking state’ of Sazzle inspectors said it was ‘hard to believe’ he is a Staffordshire bull terrier crossed with a Labrador.
The poor dog had ‘every bone showing’ when the charity found the animals in August 2018.
Video footage shows Sazzle wolfing down a bowl full of food at speed after being rescued.
The defendants admitted failing to maintain the needs of the two dogs.
RSPCA inspector Charlotte Coggins, who investigated the case, said: ‘This was a frustrating and saddening case where these two dogs were left without the care they desperately needed.
‘Sazzle was in a shocking condition when we first saw him with every bone showing. It was hard to believe he is a Staffordshire bull terrier crossed with a Labrador.
‘Veterinary examination found no medical reason for the weight loss and they increased in weight simply from being provided with an adequate diet.
‘It would have been obvious to anyone looking at both these dogs that they were desperately thin and in urgent need.
‘Thankfully, both Sazzle and Leggs have recovered and are now happy and healthy after gaining weight and condition.’
Sentencing: banned from keeping any animal for three years (expired March 2022).