AARON WIELDING AND SELINA FERGUSON HORRIFICALLY STARVE DOGS IN DONCASTER GARDEN

In a disturbing case that has shocked the community of Doncaster, two individuals, Aaron Wielding and Selina Ferguson, were found guilty of neglecting their dogs in a manner that led to their tragic deaths. The incident took place on Staveley Street, Edlington, where the defendants resided, with both of them living at the same address, DN12 1BP.

During the cold winter months of January and February 2015, Wielding and Ferguson confined two dogs, an 18-month-old brindle bull breed named Rosie and an American Bulldog called Buster, in a pen located in their garden. The conditions in which the animals were kept were appalling, with no food provided to sustain them during the harsh weather. The dogs were left to endure the freezing temperatures, and their suffering was ultimately tragic.

RSPCA inspector Sandra Dransfield, who conducted the investigation into the case, vividly described the scene she encountered. She revealed that Buster, the larger of the two dogs, was the first to die, and in a desperate attempt to survive, Rosie was forced to consume Buster’s remains. Inspector Dransfield recounted, “Buster, the larger of the two dogs, died first, and in desperation for food Rosie was forced to eat his remains.”

She further explained the gruesome evidence found at the scene: “All we found that was left of him was the upper and lower jaw and atlas bones which had gnaw marks on them. It was truly horrifying. Rosie later died too.” The remains of the dogs underscored the severity of the neglect and cruelty inflicted upon them.

Both Wielding and Ferguson pleaded guilty to multiple charges, including failing to provide proper care, neglecting to maintain a suitable environment for the animals, and causing unnecessary suffering. Their actions prompted legal action and subsequent sentencing.

In sentencing, Aaron Wielding was sentenced to 16 weeks in prison and ordered to pay £1,000 in costs. Ferguson received a 10-week custodial sentence, which was suspended for one year, along with 20 days of rehabilitation. Additionally, Ferguson was subjected to a 10-week curfew order and ordered to pay £400 in costs. Both individuals were also handed a lifetime ban on owning or keeping animals, a measure aimed at preventing any future cruelty.

This case has served as a stark reminder of the importance of animal welfare and the consequences of neglect. The community of Doncaster continues to mourn the loss of Rosie and Buster, and the legal repercussions faced by Wielding and Ferguson highlight the ongoing efforts to combat animal cruelty in the region.