CONVICTED (2017) | Mark Stange, born c. 1965, and wife Jennifer Stange, born 1954, of Kyreside, Tenbury Wells WR15 8BX – left their West Highland terriers to suffer an untreated skin condition
Mark and Jenny Stange were found guilty of causing unnecessary suffering to Westies Star and Sadie between February 28 and May 28, 2016, contrary to Section 4 of the Animal Welfare Act 2006.
Mark Stange told the court he did not believe the dogs were suffering.
When RSPCA Inspector Suzi Smith first saw the dogs she was shocked to see them with hardly any hair and crusty, greasy, infected and inflamed skin with scabs.
Both are now recovering well, one doing of them thriving to such an extent with a new owner that she won the ‘Best Rescue’ category in a dog show.
Inspector Smith, who was one of the judges, said: “Star’s new owner brought her along to the local RSPCA branch dog show as part of the River Carnival in Hereford where I was judging alongside Wye Valley Vets.
“I had no idea she was coming and honestly didn’t recognise her with all her hair- needless to say I ended with tears in my eyes.
“Pet owners need to realise that they have a responsibility to care for their animals. That includes ensuring any health issues are dealt with promptly to avoid distress to animals in their care.”
Sentencing: 12-month community order with a 30-day rehabilitation order; ordered to pay a £60 fine, £600 costs, plus a victim surcharge. Banned from keeping dogs for five years, with the right of appeal after three (ban expired May 2022).