Ordeal of neglected guard dog (From Penarth Times)

Ordeal of neglected guard dog

8:30am Thursday 5th March 2009 in News

A FATHER and son from Penarth this week admitted failing to provide veterinary treatment for a dog, which was in such a poor condition that it had to be put to sleep.

Robert Joseph Arthur Pocock, aged 58, and David Robert George Pocock, aged 26, both of Redlands Road, pleaded guilty to failing to provide veterinary treatment for the 15-year-old German Shepherd.

Cardiff Magistrates' Court heard that in August 2008, an RSPCA inspector examined the dog, named Rex, during a visit to ABC Dismantlers in Curran Road, Cardiff.

The inspector found that the animal was underweight, had badly matted hair and was in poor physical condition.

The court heard that the dog was taken to Valley Vets, where the vet noted the poor muscle mass of all major muscle groups, and the ribs, spine and bones of the pelvis were clearly palpable.

There was also an overpowering stench from the dog of urine, faeces and infected tissue.

Closer examination revealed the left dew claw of the dog had ingrown through the underside of his paw, and the sharp tip of the nail had grown through the skin and tissue and had exited through the skin on the upper side of the foot.

There was also a foul smelling discharge from the wound.

The dog screamed and withdrew the limb as soon as the area was examined and the nail had to be trimmed immediately.

Over the rump of the dog there was a large, deep, ulcerated area of infection and the overlying fur was matted and stuck to the skin.

After a course of antibiotics and anti-inflammatories, a further examination took place 48 hours later – but the animal was deemed to be in such a poor condition, that it was put to sleep on welfare grounds.

An RSPCA spokesman said: “This case highlights the fact that dog owners are totally responsible for ensuring that their animal's welfare needs are adequately met.

“This includes obtaining veterinary attention where required."

The two men will be sentenced on March 17.