AMANDA HAGAN FROM PELTON FACES CRIMINAL CHARGES OVER ANIMAL ABUSE IN CHESTER-LE-STREET

Amanda Hagan, formerly known as Amanda Johnson and a resident of Brecon Place, Perkinsville, Pelton, Chester-le-Street DH2 1HX, has been convicted of serious animal welfare violations. Her neglect led to the suffering and deterioration of her elderly pet dog, as well as the starvation and neglect of two young kittens.

Hagan, a mother of three, was found to have left her 15-year-old border collie cross, named Spook, in a state of severe neglect. The dog was suffering from a large tumour on his paw, which had gone untreated for an estimated period of at least six months. The tumour was approximately the size of a tennis ball, causing significant pain and deformity, with the bones in his paw displaced and a widespread skin infection present.

In addition to the dog's suffering, two nine-week-old kittens, one male and one female, were also found in her home. Both kittens were critically underweight, suffering from heavy flea infestations, and displaying signs of discomfort and anemia due to blood loss. The kittens' poor health was a direct consequence of neglect, depriving them of the necessary nutrients to grow and thrive.

The investigation was initiated after RSPCA inspector Helen Nedley visited the property on February 9, 2024, following reports concerning the welfare of two cats with diarrhoea living at the address. During her inspection, Inspector Nedley observed the distressing condition of Spook. She described her findings in her official report, noting, “There was an obvious large lump on the dog’s front left paw which was about the size of a tennis ball. It was pink with a large crater on the surface which looked red and sticky. There was a large patch of thinning fur on Spook’s back end and the base of his tail was thickened, with the skin on his underside appearing wrinkled and pink in colour. He had long claws and a strong smell.”

Mrs. Hagan admitted that the dog had been to the PDSA in Gateshead approximately four years prior, where she was told the lump was a fatty deposit, and that it was normal for Spook to chew at it. Recognising the severity of the situation, Mrs. Hagan agreed to surrender the animals to the RSPCA, and they were immediately taken to a veterinary clinic for assessment and treatment.

The veterinarian who examined Spook and the kittens provided a detailed report. The vet confirmed that Spook’s tumour was infected, bleeding, and likely caused by self-trauma. Radiographs revealed that the tumour was displacing the dew claw and destroying the bones of the affected digit, as well as causing abnormal bone growth on the second digit and the radius. These radiographic signs indicated an aggressive lesion, and due to its location and extent, amputation of the limb would have been necessary to remove the tumour safely.

However, the vet explained that Spook was not a suitable candidate for amputation due to his overall health. The dog was limping and showed signs of muscle wastage consistent with arthritis, which would have made recovery and joint management difficult post-surgery. The vet estimated that Spook had been suffering for at least six months, and that earlier veterinary intervention could have prevented much of his pain and deterioration. Given his poor quality of life and ongoing pain, the vet concluded that humane euthanasia was the most compassionate option.

Fortunately, the two kittens recovered fully after veterinary treatment and have since been rehomed to loving families.

Hagan pleaded guilty to two charges under the Animal Welfare Act 2006, acknowledging her failure to provide adequate care. During the court proceedings, it was revealed that she faced personal and mental health challenges and had limited financial resources, which contributed to her neglect.

The magistrates imposed a sentence of a 12-month community order, including 100 hours of unpaid work. She was also fined £80, ordered to pay £400 in court costs, and a victim surcharge of £114. Additionally, Hagan received a five-year ban on keeping animals, which will expire in January 2030. The court also gave her one month to rehome several other cats she owns before the ban takes full effect.

This case highlights the importance of timely veterinary care and responsible pet ownership, and serves as a reminder of the consequences of neglecting vulnerable animals in the Chester-le-Street area.