AMY KNUSZKA AND PAUL WRIGHT FROM LANDORE FACE JUSTICE OVER CRUELTY TO PET CAT PEBBLES

In a disturbing case that has shocked the local community of Landore, Swansea, both Amy Knuszka, born on 8 January 1992, and Paul Christopher Wright, born on 5 May 1992, have been found guilty of neglecting their pet cat, Pebbles. The couple, residing at 45 Wern Road, Landore, were prosecuted under animal welfare laws following a thorough investigation conducted by the Animal Welfare Investigations Project.

Details emerged that the couple had left Pebbles in a state of severe neglect, allowing her to suffer from untreated dental disease and matted fur for an extended period. Despite observing her deteriorating condition over a span of two weeks, they failed to seek any veterinary assistance, thereby causing unnecessary pain and suffering to the animal.

During the court proceedings, both defendants admitted to the charges, acknowledging their failure to meet Pebbles’ basic needs. The investigation revealed that on 8 April 2024, Animal Welfare Officer Serena James visited the couple’s residence. Her report described a heartbreaking scene: Pebbles was found confined in a garden shed, with fur that was visibly dirty and matted in several areas. The officer noted that the cat appeared unable to close her mouth fully, with saliva dripping from her mouth, indicating severe dental issues and distress.

Following this distressing discovery, Pebbles was immediately taken to a veterinary clinic for urgent treatment. Veterinarians confirmed that the cat had been suffering for at least two weeks before receiving any care. As part of her treatment, Pebbles underwent the removal of all her teeth due to advanced dental disease, and her fur was shaved to eliminate the mats that had formed over her body.

A forensic veterinary expert provided evidence that Pebbles’ suffering was prolonged, emphasizing the neglect that had occurred. The court heard that both Amy Knuszka and Paul Wright cooperated with investigators and had entered early guilty pleas, citing family and caring responsibilities as mitigating factors in their defense.

Jacob Lloyd, the Director of the Animal Welfare Investigations Project, issued a stern statement condemning the neglect. He stated, “Every animal deserves to be protected from pain, injury, suffering, and disease. Pebbles’ condition was clearly visible, and any responsible pet owner would have sought immediate veterinary treatment. When there is a failure to meet an animal’s needs or unnecessary suffering occurs, we will not hesitate to pursue prosecution in accordance with our Prosecutions Policy.”

In sentencing, Amy Knuszka received a fine of £80 for causing unnecessary suffering and an additional £80 for neglecting Pebbles’ needs. She was also ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £64 and prosecution costs of £200. Paul Wright faced more severe penalties, being fined £300 for causing suffering and another £300 for neglect. He was additionally ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £240 and prosecution costs of £500. Both individuals are now disqualified from owning or caring for any cats, although they have the option to apply to the court after 12 months to have this restriction revoked.

This case underscores the importance of animal welfare and the responsibilities of pet owners to ensure their animals’ health and well-being. The Animal Welfare Investigations Project continues to monitor and take action against cases of neglect and cruelty, reaffirming their commitment to protecting vulnerable animals in the Swansea area and beyond.