Hope Starkey, 28, of Abbotsford Road, Nuneaton, appeared at Coventry Magistrates’ Court today.
She admitted to causing unnecessary suffering to a puppy known as Nylah by failing to address the animals’ pain and infection following an ear cropping procedure.
She was sentenced to a 12 month community order which included 180 hours of unpaid work. She was ordered to pay costs of £1,000 towards the prosecution. She was disqualified from keeping all animals for 5 years.
The court heard how investigating officers from Animal Protection Services visited Ms Starkey on 5th July 2021 after a member of the public reported concerns about Nylah. In interview, Ms Starkey admitted that she had purchased Nylah in late May. Ms Starkey further admitted that she did not seek veterinary attention for Nylah or provide any pain killers, and she took full responsibility.
A spokesperson on behalf of Animal Protection Services said: “This is the one of the worst cases I have ever seen. A member of the public had contacted us in July and was worried about the welfare of Nylah, reporting that she had not had any pain relief since her ears were cropped in late May.
“Investigating officers from Animal Protection Services attended the address and found Nyla. The strong foul smell coming from her ears was unbearable. Both of her ears were infected. The ears were painful to touch.
“Ear cropping is a painful and unnecessary procedure that is carried out completely for cosmetic purposes. It has lifelong implications on the dog’s welfare and behaviour. In this case, Nylah was left to suffer with an infected wound, without any veterinary care.”
Nylah was taken into the care of Animal Protection Services. She will remain in the charity’s care until she is ready to be rehomed.