Northamptonshire woman banned from keeping dogs for five years after pets Spike and Bruno left suffering from untreated skin disease

Claire Rose Jones, of Spenser Crescent, Daventry, pleaded guilty to two offences under the Animal Welfare Act after admitting she failed to meet the welfare needs of her dogs. She appeared at Wellingborough Magistrates’ Court on January 9 for sentencing.

The court heard that between November and December 2024, the 38-year-old failed to ensure that her brown crossbreed dog Spike and white and brown bulldog Bruno received appropriate veterinary treatment for an ongoing skin disease. Spike was also underweight and not provided with an appropriate diet, while Bruno was additionally suffering from untreated cherry eye in both eyes.

The court heard that the RSPCA had been involved with Jones prior to the prosecution, following repeated concerns about the condition of the dogs. Inspectors first attended the address in March 2023, when both dogs were found to have fur loss linked to skin disease. Jones agreed to seek veterinary treatment and was provided with financial assistance by the RSPCA.

Although an initial veterinary appointment was attended, follow-up treatment was not completed and recommended medication for Bruno’s cherry eye was never collected, according to the RSPCA.

Further visits showed that the dogs’ conditions deteriorated, but appointments continued to be missed.

In December 2024, a vet confirmed Spike and Bruno were suffering from severe chronic skin disease, with extensive hair loss, thickened skin, open sores and intense itching. This was a result of a flea allergy dermatitis.

The RSPCA said that veterinary experts concluded that the dogs’ conditions had been present for months and that their welfare needs had not been met.

RSPCA Inspector Susan Haywood said: “This was a prolonged case where repeated support, advice and financial assistance were offered. Sadly, despite numerous opportunities to address these dogs’ serious medical conditions, their sad situation continued for months. The outcome ensures Spike and Bruno are now free from pain and protected from further harm.”

“Owning a pet is a big responsibility that you take on for the animal's whole lifetime - if people find themselves in financial difficulty, we would urge them to seek support. Nobody should wait until an animal is in crisis - people struggling can speak to their vet, or a local charity. No animal should be left to suffer in silence.”

Jones was sentenced to a 12-month community order, including 20 days of Rehabilitation Activity Requirement and a six-month mental health treatment requirement. She was also ordered to pay £750 in costs and a £114 victim surcharge.

Jones was banned from keeping all animals except cats for five years. Spike and Bruno were removed from her care and are now being cared for by the RSPCA, until they are ready to be put up for adoption.

Anyone concerned about the welfare of an animal can report it to the RSPCA’s cruelty line on 0300 1234 999 or visit the RSPCA website for advice and support.