Athena suffered a long time due to owners’ neglect. They are now banned from owning dogs for two years.
Julie Knight, 51, and Sydney Rees, 52, admitted to breaking the Animal Welfare Act law in Rhondda Cynon Taf. They caused pain to Athena because they skipped crucial vet care. The court heard that her face had a large swelling.
Both received a community order for twelve months, along with ten days of rehabilitation. Each was fined £80 plus a £114 surcharge, and ordered to pay £532.50 in costs. A two-year ban on owning dogs was issued, but delayed for fourteen days.
The owners claimed they had always had dogs and this was their first problem. They stated they spent £1,000 on Athena in the summer of 2023. Knight still feels bad and often thinks of her, they reported.
Andrew Harris, an RSPCA officer, saw Athena at their home in January 2024, and the court was told of this visit. He saw a swelling on Athena’s face, approximately the size of a golf ball. Rees said her teeth got pulled a year ago, but officers were informed that the swelling came up that week.
Rees admitted Athena did not see a vet. Harris emphasized that a vet visit was crucial, providing them with an assessment document and a vet voucher. RSPCA officers continued to try and see Athena, and court statements describe their repeated advice that she needed vet care.
Officer Lauren Perry saw Athena in April, noting that no vet visit had yet occurred. She noticed the dog’s swollen face, her right eye partially closed shut. While Athena’s body looked otherwise fine and she was alert, her face was very swollen.
They cited a lack of transport as a reason for not seeking care. Perry, concerned about Athena, offered to take Athena to the vet, an offer that the owners accepted. The vet then informed Knight and Rees that Athena was suffering and putting her to sleep was the only option to end that suffering.
Knight stated that the problem started in June 2023, after Athena had tooth removal. She admitted no vet care occurred since then. The vet testified that Athena likely suffered for one to two months, based on their professional opinion given to the court.
Gemma Black, a deputy chief inspector, described the case as heartbreaking. Athena’s owners failed to get her the necessary vet help, causing needless pain due to the unmet need. She urged pet owners to seek help and contact welfare groups for assistance, emphasizing not to delay urgent vet care.