ADAM AND SHELBIE COOKS FROM WYKEN, COVENTRY, CONVICTED OVER CRUELTY TO AMERICAN BULLDOG SASSY

In a case that has shocked the local community of Wyken, Coventry, Adam Cook, born around 1992, and his wife Shelbie Cook (née Keenan), born approximately in 1996, faced justice for their neglectful treatment of their pet dog, Sassy. The couple, residing on Attoxhall Road in Wyken, was found guilty of multiple violations under the Animal Welfare Act following a distressing investigation into the condition of their two-year-old American bulldog.

According to reports, Sassy was subjected to severe neglect, which resulted in her being critically underweight and suffering from a painful skin infection. The dog exhibited fur loss across her face, legs, and ears, accompanied by a strong smell of yeast indicative of a serious skin condition. When examined, Sassy’s ribs, hips, and spine were clearly visible through her skin, highlighting the extent of her malnutrition. Her nails were also grossly overgrown, further evidence of neglect. At the time of her rescue, Sassy weighed a mere 19.3 kilograms, significantly below the typical weight of around 30 kilograms for her breed.

The neglect was only brought to light after a visit from RSPCA inspector Louise Marston in March 2019, prompted by a report from a concerned member of the public. Upon inspection, the inspector immediately recognized the signs of suffering. Sassy was visibly distressed, with a severe skin condition and signs of dehydration. The inspector described her as being in a dire state, with her skin thickened from long-term irritation and her fur loss indicative of prolonged suffering.

During the inspection, Adam Cook allowed Sassy to be taken for veterinary treatment but refused to sign her over into RSPCA custody initially. Instead, she was taken into the care of West Midlands Police under the provisions of the Animal Welfare Act, following a veterinary assessment that confirmed she had endured unnecessary suffering. A subsequent interview with Adam Cook led to him agreeing to relinquish Sassy into the RSPCA’s care, ensuring she could receive the necessary treatment and rehabilitation.

Under the compassionate care of the RSPCA, Sassy has made a remarkable recovery. Inspector Marston recounted her experience, stating, “As soon as I took Sassy to the vets I offered her water which she gulped down and the vet concluded she was borderline dehydrated. I also offered her food and she was ravenous. Her skin was in a terrible condition and her itching had caused fur loss and made some skin thicken, which suggests long-term irritation. She was also severely underweight but there was dog food in the house. The vet concluded that she had suffered in this way for weeks to months which must have been awful for her.”

Inspector Marston emphasized that there is no justification for neglecting pets and urged owners to seek veterinary assistance when needed. She highlighted that many veterinary clinics offer payment plans, and charities are available to help cover vet bills. Thanks to the intervention and ongoing care, Sassy has been treated for her skin condition, returned to a healthy weight, and has now been rehomed.

In terms of legal consequences, both Adam and Shelbie Cook received a 12-month community order, which includes 80 hours of unpaid work and a 15-day rehabilitation activity requirement. They were also ordered to pay costs and charges amounting to £335 each. Additionally, they are banned from owning dogs for five years, with the restriction set to expire in October 2024.