AIMIE LOUISE BENNETT FROM THORNLEY SENTENCED FOR CRUELTY TO DALMATIAN BELLA

Aimie Louise Bennett, born on July 19, 1991, and residing at St Leonard Crescent in Thornley, Durham DH6 3GA, was found guilty of neglecting and causing unnecessary suffering to her six-year-old Dalmatian named Bella. The heartbreaking case came to light after Bella was rescued by the Dalmatian Adoption Society and Rescue, following a tip-off about her dire condition.

When Bella was brought into the care of the charity, her condition was nothing short of tragic. Sue Bell, the founder of the rescue organization, described Bella’s state as severely neglected. The dog was suffering from an advanced skin infection that caused her to bite and scratch herself incessantly in an attempt to find relief. Her emaciated body revealed her bones clearly through her skin, a stark indicator of prolonged malnutrition and neglect.

Despite the rescue efforts, Bella’s health deteriorated rapidly. A few nights after her rescue, she succumbed to a condition known as bloat, or gastric dilatation-volvulus. This condition occurs when a dog’s stomach fills with gas, food, or fluids, causing it to expand and twist, often leading to death if not treated promptly. Ironically, Sue Bell noted that Bella’s death was not directly caused by her starvation or skin issues, but rather by her beginning to eat again, which may have triggered the fatal bloat.

The RSPCA was contacted regarding Bella’s condition, and they took legal action against Bennett, who was identified as her owner. Bennett, a mother of three, admitted to causing unnecessary suffering to Bella between March and June of 2017. She failed to seek veterinary treatment or address the worsening physical state of her dog during this period.

RSPCA inspector Nick Jones described Bella’s condition as shocking. He stated, “This poor dog was in a shocking state. She was emaciated and had a terrible skin infection which had caused her to self-harm. Her whole body was covered in sores where she had chewed her skin until it was raw to relieve the irritation.”

Bennett explained that she had taken Bella in after her previous owner moved away. She claimed that Bella had skin issues from the start, which she attempted to treat herself as the condition worsened. However, inspector Jones emphasized that it is every pet owner’s responsibility to seek professional veterinary care when their animals are suffering. He pointed out that Bella’s suffering was evident and that professional intervention was necessary.

In court, Bennett was sentenced to pay costs amounting to £150. Additionally, she was disqualified from owning dogs for a period of five years, a ban that expired in December 2022. This case highlights the importance of responsible pet ownership and the severe consequences of neglecting animal welfare.