CONVICTED (2017) | Kieran Benjamin Fowler, born 21 August 1993, of Palm Street, Middlesbrough TS1 3EE – left his pet dog to suffer with a broken pelvis for two weeks
Fowler failed to get veterinary help for his pitbull-type dog Lizzy for two weeks after she was hit by a car.
By the time the animal was finally assessed by a vet, her pelvic canal had displaced, causing the bone to become displaced and completely shredded.
The injury was found to be inoperable and a decision was made to put her to sleep.
Fowler claimed he had done “everything he could” to save the pet but pleaded guilty to causing unnecessary suffering to a protected animal.
It was heard that unemployed Fowler failed to provide the necessary treatment for the dog after she slipped her lead and got knocked down in October 2016.
Prosecuting on behalf of the RSPCA, John Ellwood said: “The defendant took the dog to the PDSA charity because he said he couldn’t afford treatment otherwise.
“They administered pain-killing treatment for the dog on an emergency basis while the defendant was asked to provide his benefit details. They asked him to bring the dog back to them straight away but he failed to do so.
“He then waited until November 10, some 16 days after the initial meeting, to ask for further assistance.”
The court heard Fowler was asked to bring the dog back for an X-ray but again failed to show and so the case was reported to the RSPCA.
Mr Ellwood continued: “His perception was that he would have had to pay a reduced rate but wanted to wait for his benefits so he could receive the treatment for free.”
John Nixon, defending, said: “What is clear is that the defendant attended the PDSA on two occasions. It is clear there were financial issues as a result of which he was not able to receive treatment. He is a young man living alone with no family for support and so the potential costs were completely and utterly beyond his ability to pay.”
Mr Nixon added that although the dog had sustained the injury, it did not vocalise any pain and there was no evidence of dehydration when assessed.
“My client showed every intention to seek treatment but was not able to pass the financial test to get the required treatment.”
District Judge Mr Lawrence said: “I am satisfied the defendant took every step to care for Lizzy, but was confused about what he was entitled to financially.
“Although the dog sustained a fractured pelvis, this was only a short term of neglect.”
Sentencing: fined £300 and ordered to pay £330 in court costs. No ban.